Around Calhoun County Archive
by Bill Bailey

July 22, 2010

As the dog days of summer go, this one is for the books. It has been excessively hot for consecutively more days than in the recent past, and we have received rain periodically throughout this traditionally drier part of the year.

I look forward to the cooler days of fall, followed by the white covering of winter snow, because you can always dress warm by piling on the heavy clothes, but you can only remove so much in an attempt to stay cool.

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Tuesday, July 20, marked the 41st anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission to land men on the moon and return them safely to earth. When Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed on the moon that day, I was glued to the couch, excited that the landing was without mishap and eagerly waiting for the first steps on the lunar surface.

That was also the day I was to leave town for a week to attend a science camp at Butcher’s Bend at Mineral Wells. I was sure that, since the astronauts would begin their historic trip down the ladder of the lunar excursion module, Eagle, at around 10 p.m., we would not see it at camp. Thanks to a Parkersburg store, Bobier TV and Electronics, who provided the camp with two of the biggest TVs it had in stock, and to the people in charge of the camp, who let us stay up that late, it made my first night at science camp one of the most memorable nights ever.

Now, we are happy when a major oil company manages to cap a well that shouldn’t have been a problem in the first place. I guess that’s progress.

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Rain slick highways have caused a few accidents lately. Remember to slow down when it rains. Your tires may be a little more worn than you think, and the road surface is slicker with water on it. Take a little time to enjoy the rain.

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Little spotted fawns can be seen frolicking in fields after the rains, while the mother deer eat the succulent grasses. Many bucks with horns in velvet stand off to the side in groups and watch. This should be a good year for deer hunters.

July 15, 2010

Some rain fell on the area the beginning of the week. The grass is looking greener and my weeping willow is much happier. Of course, you can’t have rain without very high humidity, which can make 80 degrees feel like 90, so I can still complain about the heat.

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I did do a little fishing over the weekend and I can tell you that it feels strange to catch a fish, hold it in your hands, and the fish feels warmer than the air. It was fun though. I caught 14 nice bass, lost two really nice ones, and lost one that was big enough to snap my line when I tried to set the hook.

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Many tasty treats are coming from local gardens. Nothing can beat the taste and smell of fresh, chilled cucumber salad. My thanks go out to all who have extra veggies to give to those who do not have a garden of their own. As my grandmother used to say, “Be a good neighbor, share your hard labor.”

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Some progress is happening at the future construction site for the new bridge to replace the Corder bridge on Rt. 33-119 at the Roane/Calhoun county line. It will be nice to see a large truck coming at you when you are about to cross Henry’s Fork and not have to worry about a collision on the narrow bridge.

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Paul Stalnaker, retired math teacher and all-around good man, died recently. Many knew him as a teacher at Calhoun County High School. I always thought he was fair and honest. When forced to strict measures, he was never afraid to apply the “board of education to the seat of knowledge.” He will be missed.

July 8, 2010

I guess the weather for the Fourth of July was absolutely perfect, since it was hot as a firecracker. Unfortunately, it continues to be even hotter each day this week, with temperature indices going close to, and perhaps over, the 100-degree mark. That makes it rough on those who labor out in the heat and those without air conditioning. By the weekend that should change when a cold front moves through bringing some rain and slightly cooler temperatures.

*    *    *    *

It’s no wonder our ancestors weren’t as overweight as today’s generation. They must have sweated away any excess calories in the summer and then worked them off in the winter trying to stay warm.

*    *    *    *

The excess heat makes it hard to catch fish as well. The water in the Little Kanawha River feels fairly close to bathwater, and the fish don’t feed much. One local couple who went camping over the holiday weekend said the only bites they got were from mosquitoes.

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The lack of rain has dried up creeks and springs, and many area residents are going about the yearly chore of hauling water to fill their cisterns. Everyone has said it would be nice if Mother Nature would water their gardens for a day or two and give them a break from that heavy chore.

July 1, 2010

After repeating the hot and muggy pattern for another weekend, it seems we are in for some nice weather, with cooler temperatures and much lower humidity--at least until the 4th of July, when it is forecast to heat up again.

*    *    *    *

Even though it appeared no one was going to take advantage of Grantsville Community Garden, within the last two weeks someone has put it to good use. There are a couple of rows of tomato plants and perhaps some other vegetables on the way.

Gardening is an excellent way to work through stresses of everyday living, until bugs, blight, hail or deer come along and make you blow your top.

*    *    *    *

West Virginia lost Sen. Robert Byrd this week. When I was just a boy, I remember a government snafu that stopped my father’s disability checks for over a year. It seemed that no one could help until Byrd became involved and got matters corrected right away. He will not be easily replaced.

*    *    *    *

Now that the first cutting of hay is in the barn, so to speak, I have noticed that more farmers have begun using their old square balers again. It makes sense to me, as they are more easily stacked and actually worth more if sold to other farmers.

Now, if a few farmers would start putting up haystacks again, I would feel transported back in time.

June 24, 2010

The weather has continued to be hot and muggy, with the occasional thunderstorm to raise the humidity even higher. Overnight temperatures give little relief from the oppressive heat, although having a fan makes it tolerable.

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Three cows were killed near Cabot Station last week, when the tree they were gathered under was struck by lightning during a thunderstorm.

We would all do well to remember that if you can hear thunder you should seek safe shelter immediately. You don’t want to be under the next tree that draws a lightning strike.

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An 87-year-old Arnoldsburg man was arrested last week in Jackson County, after police found one and a half pounds of marijuana in his car.

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Twenty volunteers on bicycles rode around the state from Huntington to Jackson’s Mill braving some of the hottest weather of the year to raise funds to help kids attend 4-H camp. They arrived in Grantsville last Saturday from Parkersburg and were welcomed by county extension agent Curt Garrison, whose parents hosted the cyclists at their home.

*    *    *    *

As of Tuesday at 3 p.m., according to Allegheny Power, the planned power outage for Thursday, June 24, 9 a.m. to noon, along Rt. 5 west of Grantsville, is still planned.

Last week, Allegheny listed the areas affected as Rt. 5 West of Grantsville to Creston, Leafbank, Hardman, Big Root, Yellow Creek, Bryner, Little Creek, Stutler Run, Annamoriah Creek, Munday, and Katies  Run.

June 17, 2010

Hot and muggy with occasional thunderstorms is the perfect description of recent weather. Over the weekend, a very heavy rain fell in the Grantsville area, which managed to clog every drain on town hill with mud and rock.

The runoff made the ditches a little deeper and deposited quite a bit of gravel and rock across the road at the north end of town. Highway crews cleaned the grates and removed the muck on Monday morning.

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Gardens around the county are starting to look lush and folks are already beginning to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

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Raspberries are beginning to ripen for those inclined to go berry picking. That was a job that I didn’t mind doing when I was a lad, I picked many gallons of berries and gave them to our neighbors, who would return the favor to me in the winter in the form of jam and jelly.

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The official start of summer is Monday, June 21. I expect things will heat up then, even more than have so far. I look forward to winter when you can dress warmly. There’s only so much you can take off to stay cool.

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West Virginia State Folk Festival will be held this weekend in Glenville. It has been going on for 61 years and is a must for lovers of bluegrass, folk music and dance. Go listen to some live music and see if you can keep your feet still.

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Sunday, June 20, is West Virginia Day and Father’s Day. Be sure to remember and honor both.

June 10, 2010

The Calhoun County Wood Festival is over for another year, and it showed that things do get better with age. There was music and laughter, and re-acquainting with old friends that you only see at this time each year.

Although the weather was very hot and muggy, it rained little and did not dampen the spirits of those in attendance, who were ready to enjoy the many activities.

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There is some resurfacing happening on Rt. 16 North of Grantsville, which should make the road a little more passable. There are very few stretches of smooth road left in the county.

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The hot weather lately has encouraged some locals to go to an old-fashioned swimming pool, the Little Kanawha River. Three times last week, I saw folks splashing around and having a good time getting cooled off. Sometime soon, I will go do some fishing in the river, and I am certain that I will “accidentally” fall in once or twice.

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It seems there was a minor accident last week involving a senior citizens bus and a booth on Market St. that sold smoked pork. The bus bumped into the booth and disconnected some of the utilities, causing a slight delay in sandwich making.

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According to DNR, West Virginia hunters harvested 10,006 turkeys in 2010, the highest since 2006’s 11,735.

Calhoun continued a five-year decline in turkeys killed: 2006, 193; 2007, 150; 2008, 141; 2009, 129; and 2010, 120.

June 3, 2010

Even though at times it looked as though the clouds were going to let go and give us a good drenching, the weather was beautiful over the Memorial Day holiday. There was even some hay cut and put up last week.

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A Calhoun County couple was arrested last week for felony grand larceny after they allegedly took four Alcoa wheels valued at $2,000 from David Cain of Big Bend. The thieves were arrested after they tried to sell the wheels at a recycling center in Elizabeth.

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There is much excitement in Grantsville, as the town gets ready to kick off the 48th Calhoun County Wood Festival on Thursday. Music is planned for each evening and there is almost always impromptu jamming under the tin roof behind the NAPA store.

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The black snake that was living in my yard evidently reads the Chronicle. We saw it in the middle of the road heading up the holler last week. I guess it wanted to live bad enough to move away.

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The historical information sign, telling the story of Grantsville, that has been on the courthouse lawn for years is missing. It was first noticed last week. One can only suppose that it was taken by the state for refurbishing. Last year, two signs went missing in the West Fork area only to mysteriously re-appear months later, all cleaned up, without explanation.

May 27, 2010

The weather has been perfect for the last week. I guess that means there is a chance of rain during the Wood Festival.

I’m not saying that it rains every year during the first week in June, but for some reason none of the farmers I know will cut their hay that week. Perhaps it’s hard to find laborers then.

*    *    *    *

There has been much activity on Nobe Road over the past week. A house belonging to Norma Joy Freshour burned last Thursday under suspicious circumstances. Neighbors witnessed people entering the house with sheets covering their heads just before the house went up in flames.

Five days earlier, the house and a pickup truck were hit with shotgun fire and a de-activated hand-grenade was thrown into the yard.

Two men have been arrested in relation to the incidents. The state fire marshal and state police are continuing their investigations and are looking for other suspects.

*    *    *    *

A Calhoun man, Derek Westfall, was seriously injured last Sunday night in a wreck on Nicut Road. Westfall’s vehicle struck some steel I-beams, that were in place for a road slip, and the vehicle was ripped open throwing Westfall into the road. He was sent to CAMC by helicopter and is still in critical condition.

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Monday is Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day. Cemeteries all over the county have been spruced up and many flower arrangements have been made by hand or purchased to place in remembrance on the graves of those we love and miss so much. In days gone by, folks would walk to the graveyard and pick flowers on the way, while talking about the good times they remembered sharing with the departed.

May 20, 2010

We haven’t seen the black snake since the weather turned cold, but the lightning bugs have begun to light up the night, and the toads still sing their lonesome tune.

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Irises are blooming now and the wide variety of colors they display are one of my favorite things about spring.

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All the rain we have been getting, while welcome, has kept the river looking like mud and running high. I suppose those of us who wish to do so can go fishing next month.

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Last Thursday afternoon, lightning struck a tree in Grantsville, and while it did not do much damage to a nearby residence, it cleared people from the streets immediately, including me.

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Grantsville has been acting like a young lass before a big dance, getting all gussied up for the upcoming Wood Festival. Volunteers have spent the last few weekends cleaning the streets, planting flowers and generally making the town look nice. On behalf of everyone, I commend them for their efforts.

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Many of the potholes in the county’s roads have been filled, but the rough treatment they received this past winter has left them almost as much patch as road. When you drive on the few stretches of road with a new surface, it feels as smooth as velvet.

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Many species of birds are still coming to our feeders and they seem to be taking more each week. I suppose the little baby birdies have big appetites.

May 13, 2010

Every weekend, there seems to be outbreaks of severe weather somewhere in the country. Tornadoes, flooding and super-cell thunderstorms are giving little rest to some areas. Thankfully, except for some much needed rain, the nastiness has stayed away from our area.

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Little, perfectly halved multi-colored eggshells have begun to drop from nests and mommy and daddy birds have begun the tradition of carrying sunflower seeds to their little cheepers. I look forward to the days when they bring their young to the feeder and I get to watch the small birds throw a fit when their parents won’t get the seeds for them.

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Even though the primary election took place in an off-year, it seems to me that more people were interested in election days years ago. There were people on the streets, and the restaurants were busy with folks drinking coffee and speculating on who won what while they waited for the votes to be counted and results announced. I guess that, nowadays, people just check what’s happening on “Twitter.” I suppose a restaurant is where wits meet and Twitter is where twits tweet.

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The great town-wide yard sale took place in Grantsville last Saturday with bargains galore for those who could shop without a hat. While the weather was not too cold, it was windy enough to relocate things from one table to another. The wind was roaring across the hilltops and making trees dance and bend. You know it’s windy when you see a buzzard soaring backwards.

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The seismic survey thumper trucks were moving right along county roads last week. The only problem was that they only moved about 200 feet and stopped to thump again. That was an inconvenience on two-lane roads and a royal pain on back roads where they took up almost the entire roadway.

May 6, 2010

Calhoun County continues to skirt the worst of the severe weather from weekend storms. I cannot imagine what would happen to our area if we were to receive 13 inches of rain in 48 hours like they did in parts of Tennessee. Although fishing from the roof of the courthouse might not be out of the question.

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A rather large blacksnake has taken up residence in the lower section of our yard. He appears to be between five and six feet in length. This weekend, I will strongly insist that he move to the adjoining woods in order to survive the summer. Otherwise, there just might be a “mowing accident.”

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The little pink flags and stakes along some area roads were sporting wires early this week, as we are once again being deep-surveyed for deposits of natural gas in the Marcellus shale formation. This month’s issue of Audubon magazine contains an article about the exploration and exploitation of this valuable energy resource deposit and how it is being dealt with, both here and in Pennsylvania.

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A home at the Rt. 5 end of Big Root was destroyed by fire on Saturday afternoon. No one was home at the time or hurt in the blaze, but a neighbor did kick open a door to save a dog trapped in the residence.

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Next Tuesday is election day. I hear many people say, “My vote doesn’t count!” I personally believe that their vote doesn’t count, simply because they never go to the polls to cast it. Every election is important, every vote could be critical. Our ancestors fought for the right to vote, so the least you can do is exercise your right. Go vote, you’ll feel better for it.

April 29, 2010

The weather has turned from early summer to late spring with the passing of a cold front that spawned deadly and devastating tornadoes across the southern states. Locally, we received some much needed rain, cooler temperatures, and very little in the way of storms. I guess I will have to mow again this week-end, since rain also makes the grass grow.

*    *    *    *

The rain has alleviated dry conditions, enough so the state-wide ban on outdoor burning was cancelled by the governor. We are still under the normal spring forest fire restrictions until the end of May.

*    *    *    *

 A fire in Millstone last Wednesday burned a barn to the ground and injured the owners when they attempted to fight the fire. Ron Hart was taken to Minnie Hamilton Health System for treatment and his wife Ruby received minor burns on her face and arm. The cause has yet to be determined.

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A car went upside down and into the creek while traveling Rt. 16 south of Grantsville on Monday morning. The driver suffered minor injuries and was treated and released.

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The Community Garden project, located just above the former grade school in Grantsville, is on again this year. The price is $5 for a 12’x12’ plot. Nothing tastes better than what you grow yourself and you can’t beat the price--the cost of a fast-food combo meal and a little sweat.

April 22, 2010

Earth Day is Thursday, Apr. 22. Why don’t you celebrate by taking a long walk in the woods or by going fishing. The weather is supposed to be nice, so plan on spending some time with Mother Earth. For those who habitually throw trash out the window of their car, be nice to nature for this one day and take your garbage home.

*    *    *    *

Morel season appears to be (maybe) half over. The brown morels, which are the first to appear, are just now appearing in some spots, and are old and dried out in others. On a Sunday trip to the woods above our house, I found browns, grays, and little white morels. You will know the season is almost done, when you begin to find the large yellow morels in a couple of weeks.

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Whippoorwills are singing nightly and a large owl was saying good morning to us for a few days late last week by perching along our road and spinning its head all the way around to look at us.

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Carpenter bees, the ones that look like big bumblebees, are out hovering around people’s porches and generally being bothersome. I don’t mind them too much as they provide me with racquetball practice. I have never played racquetball, but I bought a racquet at a yard sale just to swat the bees. I used to use a tennis racquet, but the longer handle seemed somewhat unsportsmanlike. I like the sound of the strings when contact is made and there is one less bee dive-bombing us.

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A body matching the description of a Charleston man was discovered along the bank of the Little Kanawha River by anglers on Sunday near the mouth of Tanner Creek. Basil Fred Hill, 29, was the subject of a massive search effort when he disappeared after leaving a bar in Glenville in December. The body was sent to the State medical examiner for identification.

April 15, 2010

The woods are extremely dry right now, even morel mush-rooms are practically dry when you find them. It is so dry that Gov. Joe Manchin has issued a statewide ban on outdoor burning.

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Azaleas are beginning to brighten the landscape, alongside the dogwoods and redbuds. Beds of purple and pink phlox, as well as golden buttercups, make great stress relievers for those who walk the woods. The smell of lilacs and hyacinth alone are enough to make me close my eyes and breathe a blissful sigh.

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A brush fire last Thursday in the Crummies Creek area was reportedly started by sparks from an electric line. The fire took almost seven hours to extinguish and burned about 23 acres.

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I have yet to hear the lonesome call of the whippoorwill this spring. There are quite a few that serenade us each spring, so I expect to hear from them soon.

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If you haven’t cleaned, filled and hung your hummingbird feeders, it is time to do so. Even though they would survive without our help, I love to watch their airborne acrobatics as they attempt to guard three different feeders hung on three different sides of our house.

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A Mt. Zion man was arrested last week for intimidating and harassing a public official when he allegedly, in an aggressive manner while yelling and cursing, came towards two Dept. of Welfare employees who were following up on a complaint concerning the welfare of children in the residence.

April 8, 2010

Spring is in full flush now, redbud trees and forsythias are in their glory, trilliums and fiddlehead ferns are up, morel mushrooms have appeared, and dogwood will be blooming in a week. What a wonderful time of year it is in Calhoun County.

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Fire, once again, has struck another area family. The Carroll Road home of Jimmy and Tammy Bell caught fire on Monday afternoon and was a total loss, along with the family’s belongings. This makes the third house fire in the last few weeks.

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Two brush fires were reported on Easter Sunday. Both were east of Grantsville and were constrained to a few acres by volunteers from Glenville and Grantsville.

State law prohibits debris burning from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. during March, April and May, and caution must be exercised when operating motorized equipment or smoking in wooded areas.

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Now is a perfect time for taking early morning walks in the woods, with family and camera. Many flowers are in bloom, or about to bloom, and the lighting at that time of day is excellent for photography (of both flowers and family).

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It is with heavy hearts that we heard the news of the mining disaster in Southern West Virginia on Monday. Everyone should remember the miners and their families in their prayers.

April 1, 2010

Turkeys are beginning to form large flocks as the old toms gather and guard their harems. The hills echo each morning with their gobbling.

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Redbud trees are beginning to show just a hint of pink. As soon as they are in full bloom, we should see the dogwoods blossom. The magnificent magnolia tree at the end of the old bridge pier has tried all week to open its blossoms, but the weather has been too cold and rainy. That will change by the weekend when temperatures are forecast in the 80s.

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Folks who have been trout fishing in nearby Roane County are catching some lunkers. I guess I’ll wait another couple of weeks and give the bass a try.

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Fires are in the news again, as the home of Calhoun County deputy sheriff J.D. Smith burned to the ground last Friday evening. The house, located at Russett, was reputed to be over 100 years old. The family was uninjured, but lost everything to the blaze except the clothes on their backs.

Monetary and clothing donations can be left at the sheriff’s office. Call 354-6333 for information. A hot dog and bake sale will be held to help the family on Saturday, Apr. 3, at Speedy Mart, Arnoldsburg. For information or to arrange donations, call 655-7401 or 354-0370.

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Up the river in Glenville, Ellyson Mortuary went up in flames early Saturday morning. Fortunately, no one was injured by the fire, but owner and funeral director Terry Ellyson was unable to save his cats who perished in the inferno.

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Local and state authorities are investigating breaking and entering of two locations on the West Fork. Nelly’s Store at Minnora was broken into late Thursday or early Friday, with thieves making off with cigarettes, other tobacco products, and lighters. It marks the third time the store has been robbed under its current management.

The United Methodist Church Mission building, also in Minnora, was broken into by removal of a window. The crime was discovered Mar. 24. Thieves made off with a small amount of cash, along with some bottled water and coffee.

March 25, 2010

Spring began last Saturday and we celebrated by beginning the yard work, straightening trees bent over by the winter snows, and picking up a forest of sticks and limbs. The fields and meadows (and yards) are really greening up. Some folks have already mowed their lawn for the first time (not me).

Frogs are spreading the word each night and spring flowers are beginning to bloom, lifting the spirit of all who look upon them. Lilac and forsythia bushes are ready to pop and weeping willow and multi-flora roses are already leafing out.

*    *    *    *

Ramps are up, for those who love to eat them and don’t mind being shunned by those who won’t.

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Morel mushrooms have yet to come up, but I expect them to appear in a week or two. Then, it will time to get my yearly exercise walking up the hills to hunt the tasty little morsels. Some of the old timers (I guess I’m one now, too) believe the bad winter we had means a good year for morels. I know that the heavy snow cover in the woods flattened the leaves, which should help make morels easier to spot.

*    *    *    *

Since the snow has melted, we can see all the trash that folks decided to throw out the window of their car instead of taking it home to properly place in the trash. It reflects badly on everyone when a small part of the population cannot be bothered with keeping their fast food garbage or beverage boxes contained in their car until they get home.

*    *    *    *

The 2010 census workers are out and about, going up and down the hollows of Calhoun County. They all have identification to prove who they are and that they were hired to help you make a difference by being counted. Not being counted is bad for the community, county and state. The census questions are easy and not of a personal nature, so be sure to answer them. After all, if these Calhoun folks had not been hired to work the census, our unemployment rate would have been even higher.

March 18, 2010

Calhoun County leads the state once again in unemployment figures. Calhoun had a rate of 21.3%, with Roane at 16.8%; Clay, 16.5%; Wirt, 16.2%; Ritchie, 11.5%; and Gilmer, 9.2%.

*    *    *    *

Springing forward on the clocks somehow seems to take the spring out of my step. Although I do enjoy the extra hour of light in the evening, I find myself missing that hour of sleep in the morning more and more with each passing year. Perhaps they could just move it backward a half-hour this fall and leave it alone.

*    *    *    *

Frogs and peepers have begun their yearly serenade. One of my favorite peeper ponds, located at Pleasant Hill, was filled in last year. I will miss the songs that we used to hear with the windows rolled down as we drove by.

*    *    *    *

Night crawlers were out last week for those who are ready to do a little springtime fishing. I have also noticed that glowbugs (the larval stage of fireflies) are appearing on warmer nights. The owls in our holler have been calling out to each other quite a bit lately.

*    *    *    *

Fire destroyed the residence and all of the belongings of Charlie and Mandee Richards on Mar. 9. The fire started in a camper located next to the house and things got worse when a fire truck from Grantsville VFD got stuck turning into the driveway.

Tanker trucks responded from Smithville and Harrisville, but were unable to get close due to the stuck vehicle. Firemen fought the blaze with hoses that were stretched from Rt. 16.

Monetary and other donations can be left at the Hathaway-Propst residence, across from Victory Baptist Church, on Rt. 16 South of Grantsville, or mailed to Mandee and Charlie Richards, 7106 N. Calhoun Hwy., Big Springs WV 26137. Call 354-6293 or 364-4435 for information.

March 11, 2010

Just as soon as the snowflakes were removed from the utility poles in Grantsville, we began to see temperatures in the 50’s and 60’s, with rain in the forecast instead of snow.

*    *    *    *

Now that the snow is melting and the spring flowers-- daffodils, snowdrops, crocus and tulips--are beginning to show (they were above ground for a while, just buried beneath the snow), you can tell that they have been deprived of sunlight by the pale green of the stalks. When the snow melted, it exposed a nice bunch of snowdrops blooming along the riverbank in Grantsville. I picked some beautiful little coltsfoot flowers along our road last Saturday.

*    *    *    *

Set your clocks ahead one hour when you go to bed this Saturday night, as this is when we all “spring ahead” to gain an hour of daylight in the evening.

 *    *    *    *

Another sign of spring was the arrival of a geocacher in the county, who found six caches  in one day. He came last Saturday from Bridgeport and thoroughly enjoyed the treasure hunt and the scenery. He vows to return.

*    *    *    *

It will be nice to have some green showing around the county for St. Patrick’s Day next Wednesday.

*    *    *    *

The highway department has been taking advantage of the break in the weather to put some patching in the potholes in the county. Unfortunately, some of our roads are nothing but potholes surrounded by asphalt. This winter has been extremely rough on the roads.

*    *    *    *

Deer are gathered where the grass is greenest, enjoying the best forage they have had in months. Turkey songs once again echo in the valleys as they get ready for the spring dance.

March 4, 2010

We get a little bit of thaw and then winter returns with a vengeance. A four-day snowstorm began on Thursday and snow continued to fall until Sunday morning. The accumulation of snow in our yard measured 16 inches.

Our little dog Shiloh stands about nine inches tall and taking him out for walks was, at least for us, a comical excursion. He did manage to get through the great white, though mostly by jumping from spot to spot with just his head sticking out above the snow.

Weather for this weekend is forecast to be partly sunny, warmer, with little or no precipitation, if you can believe it.

*    *    *    *

What has been an extremely inconvenient winter for all of us has been a complete disaster for the woodland animals: beginning with a very poor harvest of nuts last fall to months of snow-covered ground, where even winter grass has been almost impossible to find. The deer seem to be a bit scrawny and what few squirrels I have seen were out on the end of limbs, precariously perched, eating the buds of leaves yet to be.

*    *    *    *

On Monday, Mar. 1, 1997, there was severe flooding in the southern end of Calhoun County. If we are lucky, all of the snow we have received will simply melt away without being melted by a few days of rain.

February 25, 2010

We received a respite from winter’s icy grasp over the weekend. Temperatures warmed up to almost 50 degrees, with snow melting on roads, yards and roofs. Speaking of roofs, mine has a rather steep pitch and the glacier that was sitting there took a slide on Monday removing the gutters and quite a bit of woodwork in the process. Luckily, no one was under the avalanche when it fell.

*    *    *    *

I have now witnessed robins hopping about pastures and yards with my own eyes. While discussing this harbinger of spring, a fellow informed me that many of the folks he knows look for a different bird to tell them that spring is near, namely, buzzards. Just as they do every fall, buzzards return from their journey south in great flocks each spring. They even have a festival on Mar. 15, celebrating their return in Hinckley, Ohio. 

*    *    *    *

The highway department has been working on patching some of the potholes, but the potholes are keeping ahead of them. Maybe the snow we are due to receive at the end of this week won’t be too bad, so that snow plows won’t dig out the patching that was put in.

*    *    *    *

A house on Hog Nob Hill was seriously damaged on Sunday when a natural gas explosion demolished a wall at one end of the home, knocked doors and windows out, blew a hole in the ceiling and damaged the floor. Two people were in the other end of the house at the time of the explosion, but were uninjured.

*    *    *    *

The man accused of murdering Mike and Julie Flanagan last Easter weekend, Kirk Allen Miller of Salem, made his first appearance in court on Monday. Pre-trial hearing will be in May.

*    *    *    *

Deer are happy to see grass again, and have wasted no time trimming it down to mud. It seems that they have been eating anything they can find, even bark, tree buds and pine needles. They have had a hard time of it this winter.

*    *    *    *

We have been getting nightly visits from one of the biggest opossums I have seen. It looks like a 20-lb. rat and really does not like getting pounded and prodded by a walking stick. It had better learn to stay away mighty soon or it could come down with a quick case of lead poisoning.

*    *    *    *

The nasty ladybugs and wasps are beginning to wake from their long winter’s nap and fly around in homes--a sign of spring we could do without.

February 18, 2010

At the risk of sounding redundant, winter still holds us firmly in its icy grasp. It seems there is no respite from the ice and snow (“snow” is now considered a four letter word, so use it with caution). Spring is only four weeks away, but that is too far off for some folks.

*    *    *    *

Robins were reportedly seen in the county a couple of weeks ago, but I thought I would wait to report that bit of news until I saw them myself. I still have not witnessed even a single robin hopping around anywhere, but I do not doubt the earlier report. I just figure the robins got a little tired of hopping in deep snow looking for worms that are still frozen, so they turned around and flew back south. Perhaps, they will try again in April.

*    *    *    *

Tuesday, Feb. 16, marks the seventh anniversary of the worst ice storm ever to hit the area. No matter how bad this winter has been so far, at least it is not as devastating as that one. I still remember the sounds of the trees as they succumbed to the weight of the ice coating them, and either exploded as they broke in two or roared as they were uprooted. For two days that sound was almost constant.

*    *    *    *

The highway department has been working tirelessly to keep the main roads clear, but that does not leave them much time to work on the back roads of the county. Some folks have not been out of their hollers for over a week. The good news around these parts is that your neighbors are always ready to help you out when you need it. With any luck, there might be a break in the weather the latter part of this week to allow people to restock their pantry and refrigerator.

February 11, 2010

There is no reason to complain about the weather, as there is no way to change it. That said, I am positive that there are many readers out there who have had enough of this snowy winter already.

After seeing up to nine inches of heavy, wet snow fall last Friday night and Saturday, we were on track to get another storm on Tuesday and Wednesday that may deposit another nine or 10 inches.

The heavy, wet snow is the most dangerous as it can collapse roofs, damage trees, cause massive power outages, and pack into ice, causing roads and sidewalks to become treacherous.

*    *    *    *

Schools were closed Friday, Monday and Tuesday, and were likely to be closed Wednesday too. I guess the students will be spending some time in school after the scheduled closing date for summer vacation.

*    *    *    *

Deer have been pawing up the ground under walnut trees in my holler, looking for nuts that have to have been there since 2008. There were no nuts on any of those walnut trees this past fall. They have also been searching for food beneath beech trees, but the squirrels have beat them to the beech nuts.

*    *    *    *

Area roads are taking a beating from all the plowing being done to remove the frequent snows. Potholes will be a definite problem for the highway crews when it warms up enough to permit patching and repair.

February 4, 2010

To the best of my recollection, this has been the snowiest winter since 1976-77, when it snowed just after Christmas and stayed on the ground until late February.

That same winter, the river froze solid for miles to a depth of three feet allowing folks to walk from Russett to Grantsville without stepping on the bank-- even the riffles were frozen.

It was snowing here over the weekend and a little more on Tuesday. It is supposed to snow again on Friday and Saturday.

The good news? The groundhog did not see his shadow around here on Groundhog Day, so according to a rodent who spends the majority of winter asleep in a hole in the ground, spring is right around the corner.

*    *    *    *

Snowdrops, the first flowers of the year in our yard, surprised us when the snow melted away last week by showing a couple of inches of growth. They are coming up through the branches of a willow tree that a snowstorm knocked over on Dec. 18. The crocuses have yet to appear, but they should not be far behind.

*    *    *    *

The first full moon of the year was visible last Friday. It is known as the “Wolf Moon” and it was almost as bright as day. On Saturday night, with all the snow cover, a flashlight was not required for a late night walk.

*    *    *    *

Kids today must like video games and television more than playing in the snow. While driving into town on Saturday, we did not see any signs of sledding or outdoor activity of any type involving children (there were many adults shoveling snow).

I guess they will remember big snowstorms only if they lose electrical power and have to actually read something by candle light.

January 28, 2010

While we all enjoyed warmer temperatures last weekend, the latter part of this week and the weekend will find us back under winter conditions. Depending on the storm’s track, we could see some substantial snow by Sunday morning, with much colder temperatures.

*    *    *    *

A blue heron was spotted along the banks of Rush Run toward Stumptown. Wonder if that bird is a glutton for punishment or if it perhaps just doesn’t like flying off to Florida every winter.

*    *    *    *

The skeletal remains discovered by hunters in the Creston area have been identified as belonging to Christian Dawn Starcher Seabolt of Spencer, who was 18 when last seen in 2002.

*    *    *    *

A trial in Tennessee has resulted in the conviction of a man for the murder of former Calhoun resident Erastus Gene Stump in 1982. Mac Ray McFarlane, 50, was convicted of premeditated murder in the first degree and was given a sentence of life imprisonment. McFarlane is said to have had an extensive criminal history.

*    *    *    *

Unemployment figures have been released for December, with almost every county in the state reporting at least a slight increase in unemployment. Local figures have Wirt at 12.3%, Roane at 14.4%, Clay at 14.6% and Calhoun with the highest in the state at 15.9%.

At least during the Great Depression, there were many road projects in the county that required manpower to complete. We still appreciate the work done by the stonemasons and road crews who helped make the county accessible.

There isn’t much call for brute force labor anymore and no other jobs on the horizon in the immediate future.

January 21, 2010

For the first time in almost a month, we were able to unlock the hubs on our four-wheel drive Tracker to get in and out of our road. There are still areas of snow in the hollow, so the December snowstorms have not completely left.

*    *    *    *

We spotted a wren at the feeder the other day, and the songbirds, every now and then, break into their spring tunes. Only two and a half months until the morel mushrooms come up.

*    *    *    *

Deer are starting to gather together again and feed in the meadows along the roads. I don’t know what they found to eat this winter, but I see they made it so far. Turkeys are also beginning to flock together.

*    *    *    *

An audit done by the legislature showed that West Virginia has too many colleges. The audit also shows that the State has the lowest number of people with bachelor’s degrees in the nation. Glenville State College was one of four rural colleges located a distance from major highways that were singled out.

*    *    *    *

Calhoun County has had a long relationship with Glenville State, and I don’t think it will close just so the legislature can say that it “tightened its belt.”

*    *    *    *

Tuesday, Jan. 19, 1994, was one of the coldest mornings on record for this area with temperatures registering as low as 31 degrees below zero. In comparison, this past Tuesday was almost balmy.

*    *    *    *

West Virginia Division of Natural Resources has announced that hunters harvested 154,524 white-tailed deer in 2009, 5.5 percent less than 2008’s 163,603. Breakdown for Calhoun’s 2,653 total was as follows: bucks, 1,151; antlerless, 1,006; muzzleloader, 180; and bow, 316. The 10-county District VI, which includes Calhoun, had the most of any district with 36,875.

January 14, 2010

The birds continue to be grateful for the food we provide for them in these times when the ground is snow-covered. The gold finches are just beginning to get their yellow coloration on chest and neck, which indicates that spring is not too far away.

*    *    *    *

This is the longest that snow has been continuously on the ground in many years. It will soon be a month since I have seen my yard.

*    *    *    *

Children have now returned to school after a rather long break--Dec. 21 through Jan. 8. Most of them were quite happy to go back to school, but not quite as happy as their parents, who had had to deal with “I’m bored!” for almost a month. The children were also tired of hearing how all of us more mature folks had to walk two miles to school every day, in knee-deep snow, and uphill both ways.

*    *    *    *

The temperatures have been dipping into the single digits overnight, but that could change by the weekend, and the snow will be gone . . . to be replaced by mud.

*    *    *    *

A house on River Street in Grantsville caught fire early Friday morning and was quickly brought under control by the fire department, which was battling both the fire and temperatures around 10 degrees. An electric heater is the suspected cause of the blaze.

January 7, 2010

Citizens of Grantsville are evidently following the letter of the law--they are not feeding the pigeons. Dozens of pigeons were seen on the courthouse roof trying to eat the snow.

*    *    *    *

As a child, I remember sitting on my grandmother’s lap, watching her shake a snow globe, and looking at the peaceful, serene scene with the snow slowly drifting down to cover the little village inside. Being a child, I thought of how nice it would be to live in a snow globe. Well, we all live in one now and it has been placed into a freezer and I, for one, can’t wait to get out (spring is only 10 weeks away).

*    *    *    *

The snow since last Friday, and it has snowed every day, is such a light, fluffy snow that I have seen people clearing their driveways with a leaf blower. When viewed from the highway, it sort of looks like a miniature blizzard with a person moving around inside.

*    *    *    *

The birds at our house very rarely sit patiently in the trees outside our windows. When they sit like that, staring at us with a “hungry look,” I know the feeder is completely empty. When I step outside to fill it up again, the birds get so excited that it sounds as loud as they do on a warm spring morning. They flit about from limb to limb, and some will fly off to alert others that are foraging elsewhere in the hollow that good times have returned and the 15-minute famine has ended.

*    *    *    *

Late last Saturday night, Calhoun law enforcement was advised of a police chase that originated in Gilmer County, with the subject fleeing towards Grantsville on Rt. 5. The driver evidently took a different route and ended up on Rt. 47, headed toward Parkersburg, where police placed a spike strip across the road flattening the suspect’s tires. The driver appeared to have been drinking and is facing multiple charges.

December 31, 2009

Christmas has come and gone for another year, but I don’t think it will soon be forgotten. The power outages from last week’s snowstorm lingered on and caused some folks to be without power, even on Christmas day. Power was restored to some areas on Christmas Eve, allowing families to go home and wake up in their own beds on Christmas morning.

*    *    *    *

Yes, we had a white Christmas in Calhoun County. As a matter of fact, quite a bit of that same snow will still be here under a layer of new snow to make New Year’s Eve an excellent time to stay home and stay safe, instead of out on the roads.

*    *    *    *

The birds at our house have told all of their friends about the new feeder I got for Christmas, and they all seem to like it . . . a lot. I guess I will be buying another 25-lb. sack of sunflower seeds by the weekend to keep my feathered friends fed.

*    *    *    *

A heavy facing board that used to hold part of the Rainbow Hotel sign came off the building and onto the sidewalk during the snowstorm. I didn’t see it until I stubbed my toe on it in the snow last week. It is a good thing that it didn’t fall on someone’s head or it would have been them that I tripped over.

*    *    *    *

With the help of family, friends and neighbors, all of Calhoun County has made it through another of nature’s nasty, but pretty, surprises. I’m sure many people are looking forward to next year and a new decade. I sure do hope that the new decade is not as rough on us as the last one was.

December 24, 2009

By the calendar, winter started on Monday. By what happened over the weekend, I’m sure most everyone would disagree about that beginning. It has been years since our area has received so much snow in just one day.

It began just after midnight on Friday when the rain, which had been falling steadily all day, turned to snow. By dawn, the white stuff was a foot deep in many areas, and showed no signs of letting up.

At our house, it measured 16.5 inches on the deck and was knee deep on me and way over our little sheltie’s head. It was fun to watch him “porpoise” through the snow.

It was a heavy, wet snow, and it dropped trees on power and telephone lines, as well as on roads, houses and whatever happened to be in the way. Power was said to be out at more than 3,300 Calhoun homes.

Lack of power has also caused water problems. An emergency shipment of 5,000 gallons of bottled water was to be delivered on Monday to help alleviate the problem.

An emergency shelter was opened on Monday at First Baptist Church, Grantsville, to help those without power and heat.

Some folks had places to be and ventured out on the roads-- and many wound up in the ditch or against guardrails. The highway department was dedicated to keeping roads passable to emergency traffic.

We had many different species of birds at our feeders, and it reminded us of shopping on Christmas eve. There were long lines of feathered customers sitting on the limbs and some of them would become impatient and attempt to jump ahead in the line.

That started a few rather contentious fights when it occurred among the gold finches and chickadees. It seemed that the cardinals were the referees, and they would stop the fighting and get a bite to eat whenever they wanted.

December 17, 2009

One of the things that really bothers me about all of this schizophrenic weather is going out in the morning, with mild temperatures, wearing a short-sleeved shirt and a light jacket, and then the wind blows in cold weather in the teens. I know, it’s my fault for not dressing warmer in the first place, but it still irks me nonetheless.

Last week’s winds were ferocious, with gusts tearing across the ridge tops like the sound of a jet taking off. Holiday decorations were blown all over yards, making me   think that I just might see Santa Claus on his sleigh with the reindeer flying over someone’s house.

The wind did do minor damage in the area, causing some roof damage and knocking over a tombstone at Pleasant Hill Cemetery. It also blew out a windowpane from the former Rainbow Hotel, which landed and smashed right beside the sidewalk.

*    *    *    *

On Dec. 15, 1967, around 5 p.m. the bridge connecting Point Pleasant and Kanauga, Ohio, collapsed, dumping 31 vehicles into the icy water and killing 46 people. The bridge was dubbed the “Silver Bridge” because it was the country’s first aluminum painted bridge.

*    *    *    *

Winter will officially begin on Monday, Dec. 21, which is the day of least sunlight. I always like to see it get dark a little later each day after that, it lets me know that spring is only a few months away.

December 10, 2009

The last day of the two-week deer season was a great day for hunting, with lots of snow. Snow makes the deer easier to spot (unless it’s an albino deer), makes tracking a wounded animal as easy as following a roadmap, and I just like to see the beautiful white layer of frosty, sparkling, frozen water crystals blanketing the dun-colored winter world. If the Weather Service is to be believed, we may even have more snow by this weekend.

*    *    *    *

Monday, Dec. 7, marked the 68th anniversary of the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, by the Imperial Japanese Navy that catapulted America into World War II. When President Roosevelt, calling on Congress to declare war on Japan, said that the assault was a “day that shall live in infamy,” he gave the Pearl Harbor attack its most famous and enduring title. War was declared on Japan the next day, Dec. 8, 1941. Within a few days, Germany and Italy declared war on the U.S. Even before the president’s speech, outraged Americans were flooding recruiting offices to join the Armed Forces.

*    *    *    *

The new security lights at the courthouse were lit for the activities and parade last Friday, and they really make a difference. There were many rosy-cheeked children standing by waiting for Santa to arrive, and they were not disappointed. He met with the little ones in the courthouse and listened to the wish list of each child. A few of the kids had some rather extensive lists. Photos will be available for viewing on our website.

*    *    *    *

Tom Fox, Dept. of Natural Resources retiree, spotted a rare sight in Calhoun: four Sandhill Cranes. These large birds (3 to 5 feet tall) are seldom seen in this area because their migration routes are farther west. If you are lucky enough to see any of them, enjoy the sight and take a photo. You may never repeat the experience.

December 3, 2009

The weather continues to be confused on a daily basis. It is getting close to the first of winter, but we are still enjoying some rather warm days, although the nights get pretty frosty. Snow is in the forecast for the end of the week.

*    *    *    *

The new security lights are up around the courthouse, and they make the old structure look a little more modern somehow. The lights are the latest design, and are manufactured to project light toward the ground to cause minimal light pollution in the night sky.

*    *    *    *

Even with the annual deer harvest in full swing, there are still multitudes of deer standing in the fields and along the roads every day. There are also quite a few nice bucks hanging from trees in successful hunters’ yards.

*    *    *    *

It was not a very happy Thanksgiving for a man who was struck by a car that was going west on Rt. 33-119 last Wednesday in Arnoldsburg. The man apparently came down a set of steps that lead directly onto the highway in a turn. He was hit as soon as he stepped onto the road. He was transported to Charleston by helicopter.

*    *    *    *

People around the county have already started decorating their homes and yards for the upcoming holiday season. It really looks nice as one is driving along the roads after dark.

November 26, 2009

There was more beautiful weather over the weekend, with sunny skies and temperatures warm enough to confuse some forsythia bushes into sprouting a few flowers.

Hunters went through the annual ritual of sighting-in their rifles. With an over-abundance of deer running around, this year could be a record harvest.

The forecast is for the possibility of snow by the end of the week. It is always nice to have snow on the ground during deer season.

*    *    *    *

When I was growing up, relatives would always come to our house for Thanksgiving week because there were hardly any deer in the Kanawha County area. There weren’t that many around here back in the ’60s either, but at least we had enough to warrant a season.

We would get up an hour or two before daylight, fix a big breakfast, and be in the woods before the sun rose. We walked along paths that we had cleared of sticks and leaves, so we could move stealthily. The secret to a successful buck hunt was to move slowly and quietly.

Those days are long gone, and so is the “slow and quiet” part. Now, you hardly ever see a hunter on foot. They mostly “road hunt” from the back of 4-wheelers or from the warm, dry comfort of 4-wheel-drive vehicles. I suppose it is a good thing that there are so many more deer in the woods now. The deer we hunted years ago would never be seen by today’s hunters.

*    *    *    *

Calhoun had an official unemployment rate of 11.6% for October, trailing Roane at 12.3% and Clay with 14.6%. The tri-county area still suffers the worst unemployment in the state.

*    *    *    *

A Pine Creek man was injured on Saturday night in a  4-wheeler accident. He was transported to Minnie Hamilton and then sent on to Charleston General with serious injuries.

*    *    *    *

Sunday, Nov. 22, marked the anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, who was killed by a sniper while riding in a motorcade in Dallas, Tex., in 1963. It was a day of shock and mourning across the country. All who were living then can well remember that day.

November 19, 2009

Another weekend of Indian Summer was enjoyed in the region, with a promise of some much needed rain in the forecast for the latter part of the week.

*    *    *    *

A four-point buck has been hanging around the riverbanks in Grantsville. He must think that no one will notice him, if he stands still until they go away. He has been spotted several times and may survive the upcoming hunting season if he continues to lay low.

*    *    *    *

This week marks the anniversary of the death of sheriff Park Richards, who was shot and killed in the line of duty on Nov. 18, 1976, while serving a warrant on a mentally disturbed man who was living in a cave on Rush Run, close to Stumptown.

A section of Rt. 16 from Grantsville to the Calhoun/Ritchie county line was dedicated Park Richards Memorial Highway in 2006 to honor his memory.

*    *    *    *

The European gypsy moth is a serious threat to West Virginia forests. People transporting campers, trailers, RVs and firewood from one area of the state to another is one of the ways it spreads. Hunters should inspect these items for the presence of gypsy moth egg masses and remove any they find. Thirty-nine of the 55 counties are under a gypsy moth quarantine and Calhoun County is on the list. The egg masses are buff colored, approximately a half-inch long, and covered with fine hairs.

In 2009, the gypsy moth defoliated over 44,000 acres of forested land in West Virginia. Gypsy moth larvae feed on over 300 species of trees, with oaks being their preferred diet.

For information call 558-2209 or visit www.wvagriculture.org.

November 12, 2009

There were dragonflies and ladybugs flying everywhere over the weekend while we all enjoyed a touch of Indian Summer. Temperatures were   in the lower 70’s and overnight temperatures were above freezing.

*    *    *    *

Be sure to set your alarm clocks to wake you up around 2 a.m. on Nov. 18, so you can enjoy the annual Leonid meteor shower, which is basically debris left behind by the comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle. This year, astronomers think that we will be getting a peak of hundreds of meteors, because Earth will be passing close to the center of the comet’s debris trail laid down in 1466. Also, the moon will be new at that time and will not interfere with viewing even the dimmest “shooting stars.” This is your chance to see the best meteor show since the 2002 Leonids.

*    *    *    *

Thursday, Nov. 5, marked the anniversary of the flood of 1985 when high waters caused severe problems throughout the region and took the lives of nearly 50 people around the state. Locally, the Little Kanawha River did not reach record levels in Grantsville, but did set the record in Glenville by being two feet higher than the flood of 1967. Smaller streams in the county wreaked havoc as well.

*    *    *    *

Progress is being made on new security lighting for the grounds of Calhoun Courthouse in Grantsville. The concrete base for the light stands has been poured and we expect to see the poles and lights installed sometime soon.

November 5, 2009

While us humans would like to enjoy the extra hour of sleep that we get back when we switch to Daylight Saving Time, animals only pay attention to the daylight itself. Our little dog, Shiloh, wonders why bedtime has moved to an hour later, and still thinks it is time to get up and go outside as soon as the sky begins to lighten. I thought only farmers had to get up at the crack of dawn.

*    *    *    *

A helicopter was buzzing around Calhoun last week and the first part of this week. If you saw it, you may have noticed the rather large saw attachment hanging beneath it. It was in the area to cut branches protruding over the power line that runs from Spencer to Grantsville to Glenville.

*    *    *    *

While watching the aforementioned helicopter flying over Grantsville on Monday, I noticed two large raptors rapidly flying toward the East. It appeared that they did not like seeing anything that large flying around, especially with a saw beneath it. When they flew overhead, you could tell that it was a pair of Ospreys. I hope they come back next year to nest.

*    *    *    *

A local man told me of having six walnut trees in his yard that produced a nice harvest of walnuts this fall. He said that his yard was covered with the nuts for about two days, and then it was covered with squirrels for one afternoon, and the nuts were gone. I suppose the walnuts are now “squirreled away.”

*    *    *    *

Although I doubt if it has anything to do with Halloween, there seem to be quite a few headless deer laying dead along the highways in the county. One supposes that they must have had a nice set of antlers to make someone cut the head off of a road-kill deer and take it with them. On the other hand, perhaps it was done for revenge for all of the damage done to their vehicle. Wouldn’t it be easier to carry a small hacksaw and just remove the horns?

*    *    *    *

It seems that all of the little ghosts, goblins, pirates and other creatures that were out and about last Saturday evening had a good time. Those involved in making their Halloween happy should feel proud.

October 29, 2009

The beauty of the trees in all of their autumn splendor simply takes my breath away. It’s like living in a vivid painting of a fall scene. I only wish everyone could experience what it is like to walk along a gravel road, kick through the brilliantly colored leaves, and smell the scent of fall in the air.

*    *    *    *

A methamphetamine bust was made in the Cabot Station area when State Police received a tip that items used for making the drug had been purchased and taken to a specific location. A Lincoln County man has been charged with the crime. The investigation is continuing.

*    *    *    *

H1N1 flu is a topic everyone likes to discuss these days. There are more than a few people I have seen this week who only go out in public wearing the “blue masks.” They probably have a bottle of hand sanitizer handy too. I don’t blame them one bit.

While the flu is widespread in the country, it is still not too bad here. Everyone should take precautions, such as frequent hand washing and immunization to protect themselves and their family.

*    *    *    *

This week marks the anniversary of the first baby born at Calhoun General Hospital, which opened in 1959. On Oct. 27, 1959, Donald Lee Edgell, Jr., was born to Mr. and Mrs. Donald Edgell of Arnoldsburg. Happy birthday, Donald.

*    *    *    *

This week also marks the birthday of the World Wide Web, commonly known as the internet. It came into being on Oct. 29, 1969, when two letters--LO--were typed on a keyboard at University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), and appeared on a screen at the Stanford Re-search Institute, 314 miles away.

October 22, 2009

So far, I have been able to count only one victim of the middle of the street pigeon feeder, a grey squirrel flattened in front of J&B, and I can’t be sure that it is actually related to the feeder. Without much to eat in the woods, who can say that they won’t come into town and commit suicide in the street.

It seems that, at least among the walnuts, trees in the valleys did not produce nuts, while the ones on ridges produced some. I don’t see many acorns or hickory nuts anywhere and the deer are coming into the yard and eating every dead flower and shrub they can. They are also cleaning up sunflower seeds that the birds drop on the ground.

*    *    *    *

Calhoun County unemployment figures from WorkForce West Virginia show a drop of 1.2 percent (13.2 to 12.1) from August to September, which left the county tied for fifth highest with Mason County. Roane leads the state with 13.0, followed by Jackson (12.9), McDowell (12.7), and Wetzel (12.3).

*    *    *    *

The temperature on Monday morning was 27 degrees at our house. Ice was in the puddles and frost covered everything. Since the cold set in, the nights are silent, except for the lonesome hooting of the owls.

*    *    *    *

Standing in line at stores in town, one can hear much about the H1N1 flu in the county and, as with all rumors, most of what you hear is either untrue or unsubstantiated. On Monday, I overheard one mother saying that she was going to keep her daughter home, even if it meant she herself might be arrested for failure to send her child to school.

She was reacting to the rumors going around, instead of contacting school or health officials to get the true story. Remember the words of Franklin Roosevelt, “We have nothing to fear but fear itself.”

October 15, 2009

The black snake I mentioned last week was pretty much of average size, so we were somewhat surprised when we spotted about a dozen crows in the trees surrounding the carcass two days later. They weren’t bothering it, just watching it very closely. The next evening, the crows were gone and nine buzzards had taken over the watch. The next day, the snake was missing. Who knew that snake was such a delicacy when there are hundreds of dead squirrels to be found along any roadway.

*    *    *    *

Apparently, someone is breaking the law in Grantsville on an occasional basis. There are mornings when I come to work and see most of the pigeons walking around the middle of the street in front of the courthouse eating something, when the town has forbidden anyone to feed them.

On the flip side of this unlawful act is the fact that, sooner or later, the pigeons will be so intent on cleaning the street that they will forget to fly out of the way of early morning traffic, and the pigeon population will be reduced.

*    *    *    *

Walking past the old Grantsville Tire building, I noticed that it has been made ready for Halloween. I’m glad to know that kids will have something to do for Halloween that will, hopefully, keep them out of trouble. I remember my teenage years and what we got into this time of year, and all of the trouble that we, somehow, avoided.

*    *    *    *

The best way to prevent getting the flu is to get a flu shot for both seasonal flu and H1N1 swine flu. The second best thing is to wash your hands with anti-bacterial soap as often as possible. Cleanliness counts towards keeping healthy.

October 8, 2009

Despite heavy rain on Friday night, we had beautiful, crisp weather last weekend. This time of year, the fog that fills the valleys each morning makes for an inspiring sight. We all should endeavor to take walks each evening and morning to appreciate the beauty and smell of autumn. It will soon be winter with drab colors and snow flying.

*    *    *    *

Speaking of snow, there were reports from various people that snow was spotted in the air on Monday on Mt. Zion ridge. They said it looked more like falling slush, but it was definitely snow.

*    *    *    *

Some people who stopped to admire a blue heron at a submarine bridge crossing the West Fork were somewhat surprised when they also saw an otter frolicking in the stream. It was swimming on its back and doing belly rolls.

*    *    *    *

Even though it wasn’t that warm on Monday, a black snake made the mistake of stretching itself across the road just when the well tender came down our road. He is still stretched across the road, but is no longer enjoying the sunshine.

*    *    *    *

 Grantsville was very busy last Saturday as folks came  from near and far to bargain   for things at the town-wide yard sale. It almost reminded me of what the streets looked like 40 years ago on a Saturday after-noon.

*    *    *    *

Oct. 4-10 is Fire Prevention Week. Appropriately timed for the beginning of colder weather, it reminds us that we need to prepare for winter by checking heaters and furnaces. Make sure that your smoke detector has a fresh battery installed and make sure everyone in your household knows your fire escape plans. If your house catches fire, everyone needs to know how to escape and where you will all meet to determine who needs further assistance. For information on family safety tips go to www.firepreventionweek.org

October 1, 2009

Weather did not cooperate with the planners of the Molasses Festival last weekend, but it could not dampen the spirit of the folks who came out for the fun in Arnoldsburg.

*    *    *    *

The raccoons that have been plaguing my birdfeeder have shown me this week that they are willing to run with a bad crowd, namely opossums. Three times they have shown up late at night with the giant rat-like creatures in tow. The raccoons disappear quickly when caught and the ’possums just stand there and look at you. Perhaps the ’coons are using them for “boot bait.”

*    *    *    *

According to an insurance firm, drivers in West Virginia have a one in 39 chance of hitting a deer in the next 12 months. That’s up from a one in 45 chance last year, which makes West Virginia the number one state for deer collisions for the third year in a row.

There is roughly one deer for every two people (1 million deer, according to the DNR, and 1.8 million people). Four cities, including Charleston, have deer hunts within city limits.

*    *    *    *

Fall forest fire season begins Oct. 1 and runs through Dec. 31. No outdoor burning is allowed between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. The burning of brush and leaves may be burned after 4 p.m. only if carefully supervised. Residents who fail to follow the burning restrictions are subject to fines of up to $300, misdemeanor charges, and can be liable for property damage that is caused by their uncontrolled fire.

September 24, 2009

The weather could not have been better for the activities at the Calhoun County High School Homecoming and the Calhoun County Park Fun Festival last weekend. The days were not too hot and the evenings were just right for a long-sleeved shirt to keep out the chill.

*    *    *    *

Monday afternoon, I heard the sound of an unusual engine going through town and looked out the window just in time to see a procession of seven or eight antique Ford horseless carriages go past. I don’t know where they were going on a Monday afternoon, but it sure was a pleasure to see them putter down Main Street.

*    *    *    *

Light rain began on Sunday afternoon and continued, off and on, through Monday and Tuesday. The long dry spell had allowed oil to build up on roadways and the rain made them very slick. There were four minor accidents reported on Monday that were likely related to the phenomenon.

*    *    *    *

An accident involving a 4-wheeler and a deer occurred over the weekend. The rider of the ATV was flown to Charleston by helicopter where he was listed in serious condition. The deer was not so lucky.

*    *    *    *

Fall fell on Tuesday, just in time for reports of light snowfall in areas of the Rocky Mountains. It won’t be long until the snow will start flying in the mountains around Elkins.

*    *    *    *

One of the young raccoons made a visit to my house on Monday night to raid the birdfeeder--again. They have stayed away for over a month, so I just thought they were done mooching off me. Now I know they were just taking a break. I guess I will have to poke them off of my feeder with a walking stick and smack them in the butt to teach them a lesson.

September 17, 2009

Another beautiful week of weather has given me nothing to complain about. Fall will arrive on Tuesday, and the days and nights we have been experiencing are just right for getting us ready. The only wooly worms that I have seen, and that have been reported to me, are completely black. I believe that portends for a bad winter. I guess we will just have to wait and see.

*    *    *    *

Bucks are beginning to lose the velvet from their antlers and deer are plentiful along the highways in the morning and evening hours. As long as they stay in the fields and out of    the roadway, I like them just fine.

 *    *    *    *

I hope to see many Calhouners at Calhoun County Park this weekend for the Fun Festival and all of the activities, including the re-enactment of the Skirmish of Sycamore. Although in the original accounts of the skirmish, there was no clear “winner,” perhaps there will be this weekend. It should be fun for the entire family. It might be wise to bring lawn chairs for the events.

*    *    *    *

September 10, 2009

Very nice weather has been on tap for the region for the past week. We even received a little rain on Sunday and Monday. The hummingbirds seem to be preparing themselves for their annual winter vacation in South America. Goldfinches are beginning to lose some of their bright yellow plumage. Owls have been making quite a bit of racket on some nights.

*    *    *    *

An accident on Friday evening on Rush Run near Orma put a car over on its top. The driver was not at the scene when authorities arrived to investigate.

*    *    *    *

It seems that the W.Va. Oral Rabies Vaccination Project will soon drop vaccination bait for area raccoons. This is a good idea to combat rabies in wild animals. If you hear a plane flying low over your head in the woods, you might be wise to duck and cover. Those baits might not be too heavy, but they would sure hurt hitting your head at 100 miles an hour.

*    *    *    *

Two county men were found dead on Saturday, one on Mud Fork and the other in Arnoldsburg. Since both deaths were unattended, the bodies have been sent to the state medical examiner’s office in Charleston for autopsy.

*    *    *    *

West Virginia has recorded its first death from H1N1, or swine flu. Michael Bloomfield, 51, of Cabell County had been in the hospital for several days and had other underlying health problems.

September 3, 2009

Fall is in the air, at least in the mornings. It has been quite cool in the morning, and the valleys have been filled with so much fog, it looks like a lake of white from ridge top to ridge top.

*    *    *    *

Some paving has occurred in Grantsville in the last week. New strips of pavement have helped the surface of Court Street, Mill Street and the area on Main Street where the drain at the corner in front of the courthouse was quite a drop all by itself.

*    *    *    *

The Town Hill paving project seems to be about done. The  work on guardrails is nearly complete, since the new paving made them too low. All they had to do was remove the guardrail, lift out the posts, drive the posts back in a little  bit higher, and bolt it all back together.

*    *    *    *

The raccoon family that has plagued my bird feeder this summer must have moved on. I have left the feeder out over night for almost a week now and it has survived with no trouble.

I suppose the momma ’coon may have sent the little bandits on down the holler, where they might be fending for themselves.

August 27, 2009

The hot and humid weather of last week gave way to a cold front, which passed through on the weekend. The temperature on Monday morning was 54 degrees at our house

*    *    *    *

It was reported on Saturday from people who lived along Rts. 33-119 that they were “pretty sure” that they had just seen Gandalf, the wizard from the Lord of the Rings, walking East in Calhoun.

The traveler was spotted from Spencer to Weston and turned out to be a man named “Pilgrim George,” who has walked from Pittsburgh to Alabama and is on the return leg of his trip.

From the descriptions given of his clothes, hat and staff, I would have probably thought him a wizard myself.

*    *    *    *

A mob of crows was shrieking and diving at an owl or hawk in the trees at the edge of my yard over the weekend. I like raptors more than I do crows, so I went out to investigate. There were too many leaves on the trees to see what the crows were after, so I began waving my arms to scare the crows away. They didn’t care about that. I then held my hand as if I was about to shoot them with a pistol. Still not caring. What they did care about was when I put my arms in the position of firing a shotgun. They all left within seconds.

*    *    *    *

A man was sent to a hospital by helicopter on Sunday night after losing control of a pickup truck on Phillip’s Run and crashing into the creek. A female passenger was taken to Minnie Hamilton Health System.

*    *    *    *

John Manis Richards of Grantsville entered a plea of guilty to a count of grand larceny and conspiracy to commit grand larceny in an agreement before Judge Larry Starcher in Gilmer County court on Thursday. This is from charges made against Richards for the July 2007 theft of a truck and materials from Hardman Supply in Glenville. The trial has been through many delays since its inception.

August 20, 2009

It was hot, humid and hazy for the last week, with showers and thunderstorms coming this week. Typical August weather is why many folks prefer September.

*    *    *    *

Tuesday morning, workers with the Dept. of Highways were working on a section of town hill road North of Grantsville digging up some of the work done, and perhaps not yet even completed, by the resurfacing project.

*    *    *    *

An accident occurred just after noon on Tuesday at the intersection of Rts. 16 and 5 in Grantsville. Robert Bonar, principal of Pleasant Hill School, was traveling South through the intersection on his way home for lunch when his pickup truck was struck in the side by a pickup moving East on Rt. 5.          

After striking Bonar’s vehicle, the truck continued through a cable across the entrance to the former Smith’s Service Station, traveled across the lot and over the hill into the deep gully beside Simon St.

 Bonar’s truck suffered moderate damage to the driver’s side, but he was apparently uninjured. The driver of the other truck made his way up the steep, brushy embankment and was taken to Minnie Hamilton Health System for treatment. His condition was unknown at press time.

*    *    *    *

The man who held up the Arnoldsburg branch of Calhoun Banks, Darin Stephen McClain, has been sentenced to 77 months in a Federal prison, followed by three years probation. He has also been ordered to pay $14,409 in restitution and testify in court as needed.

August 13, 2009

No more complaining about the lack of hot weather. I don’t really like 90-degree temperatures and high humidity. The river is just starting to clear again after looking muddy enough to plant corn in for a week.

*    *    *    *

Grantsville’s trash truck was back in service before the end of last week. The raccoons and opossums were disappointed that the town parking lot was now “off the menu.”

*    *    *    *

Summer youth workers at the courthouse applied asphalt sealer to the parking lot last week. After seeing them walk down the sidewalk after the job was done, it seemed that the parking lot may have been applying sealer to the workers.

*    *    *    *

Thieves broke into a house on Henry’s Fork last week and made off with a gun, flat screen TV and other items, as well as trashing the place when they were done.

*    *    *    *

Another member of the Energy Express team, who helped with the beautification project in Grantsville, was Angela King. The town and mayor appreciate the efforts of this group of young women.

August 6, 2009

The Town of Grantsville is experiencing a garbage disposal crisis. The municipal trash truck has developed a problem in its compactor, which renders it unusable. Garbage is still being collected and stored in the municipal parking lot in a long dumpster. The town hopes to have the problem fixed soon and the parking lot cleaned up.

*    *    *    *

It’s August and we still are experiencing June weather. There has not been a prolonged stretch of really hot weather that we usually expect this time of year, and we have had plenty of rain. Last Friday, we were under a flash flood watch--again. The forecast has more rain this week.

*    *    *    *

Dick Cottrell, 66, of Arnoldsburg, was killed while brush hogging, when a tractor rolled over on him. See the obituary on this page.

*    *    *    *

The paving project in Grantsville and Rt. 16 North is going well. It seems that the resurfacing was almost complete as of Monday and gravel was being laid down for the berm on Tuesday. It will be a wider road this winter for those who brave the hill before the salt trucks treat the snow.

*    *    *    *

Summer youth workers are still making progress painting the parking areas around the courthouse and cleaning the streets of debris, dirt and weeds.

July 30, 2009

Storms moved through the area last Friday and Saturday, causing some localized damage on the southern end of the county. There was heavy rain, plenty of lightning, and strong winds in some places. 

*    *    *    *

Roane General Hospital will no longer be in the business of delivering babies. It looks like women in labor will have to plan on leaving early to make it to their chosen hospital. Perhaps prospective fathers should learn how to deliver babies, just in case the car breaks down or the baby won’t wait.

*    *    *    *

Now that there has been a confirmed case of H1N1 (swine flu) in Calhoun, I wonder if the price of pork will plummet. It seems some folks believe that you get the disease from eating pork. It would be nice if there was a “chocolate flu” that made people afraid of eating chocolate, which could reduce the price to nice and cheap.

*    *    *    *

The Chronicle received a call last week from a reader who thought that the Town of Grantsville was paying a $100 bounty on dead pigeons. He was informed that he was mistaken. We would be out of pigeons in about 30 minutes if that were the case.

*    *    *    *

The International Space Station, with the Space Shuttle attached, orbited over the county on Saturday and Sunday nights just after dark. It was too cloudy on Saturday and I forgot to look for it on Sunday. We did see the Russian spacecraft MIR go over some years back, just before it came back into the atmosphere. It was a sight to see.

July 23, 2009

We have been the recipient of needed rain within the last week. The Little Kanawha River was muddy for a day and a half. More rain is predicted through the end of the week.

*    *    *    *

For those who may be interested, the raccoons are still visiting my house on a nightly basis. The little raccoons are starting to get a tad fat, so they must be eating well without my contribution.

*    *    *    *

Wirt County leads the state in unemployment at 15.5%. Calhoun is second with 15%.

*    *    *    *

A bomb threat was allegedly telephoned to the U.S. Armory Reserve building below Big Bend last Wednesday. While it caused quite a stir for a while, no explosives were reported found. Calling in fake bomb threats is a serious felony. Jail is the reward you will get when caught.

*    *    *    *

There are many cute little spotted fawn deer running around in the fields (and my yard). Bucks are in velvet, and some of the racks look like a mossy sumac tree.

*    *    *    *

Someone apparently broke into the boarded-up home of the murdered Flanagans. A nearby hunting cabin, owned by an Ohio man, was also burglarized.

*    *    *    *

Grantsville resident John Manis Richards appeared before special judge Larry Starcher in Gilmer County and had his bond reinstated. A new trial date was set for Aug. 20. The trial is about the alleged stealing of equipment and materials from Hardman Supply, Glenville, in July, 2007.

July 16, 2009

I went fishing last week on my birthday and was able to catch almost 20 bass . . . on my camera. Family members were catching the bass left and right, while I was simply providing the fish with an evening of entertainment. It was great fun though, and I did catch two (very small) bass and a bluegill.

*    *    *    *

I always check the weather forecast for the area by going to the National Weather Service website (and then making up my own mind from the satellite and radar images). They have “On this date in weather history,” and I was reminded that, 20 years ago on July 13, Calhoun and Gilmer counties were hit by severe thunderstorms that dropped two to three inches of rain between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Flash flooding occurred on Barnes Run, Daniels Run, Pink Creek, Sycamore Creek, Rush Run, Steer Creek and Phillips Run. A 62-year-old man was swept into Mike’s Run while attempting to clear a culvert in front of his home. This quote came from the Chronicle, “Most people agreed on two things, that the flooding didn’t seem that bad at first, and that they have never seen so much water come up so quickly before.”

*    *    *    *

July 20 marks the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 mission that first landed men on the moon. Everyone old enough to remember that day can still recall the grainy, black and white images we saw as we gathered around television sets to witness those historic first steps on the lunar surface. I was attending Science Camp at Butcher Bend and I don’t believe any of us campers were able to go to sleep that night.

We heard President Nixon say, “For one priceless moment in the whole history of man all the people on this Earth are truly one--one in their pride in what you have done and one in our prayers that you will return safely to Earth.”

July 9, 2009

Although some of the hay put up last week got an extra rinse and a lot of stirring, the fields look a lot better now that they are cut. We can only hope the weather is better for a second cutting later on.

*    *    *    *

I forgot to bring the bird feeder in from the tree branch one night until maybe 20 minutes after dark. I thought it would not be a problem, since the raccoon usually raids it later than that. I went out to retrieve the feeder without a flashlight and almost grabbed the raccoon by mistake.

It was hanging from the limb by its back feet, one fore leg holding the top of the feeder up, and the other fore leg deep down in the birdseed. It looked quite surprised to see me, but not nearly as surprised as I was when I jerked my hand back out of harms way. I am now more diligent about bringing it in before dark.

*    *    *    *

Carl Smith Paving began road surfacing preparation on Rt. 16 North of Grantsville this week. New culverts and other work is being done first. Be prepared for delays until the project is finished.

*    *    *    *

The “Dog Days” of summer have started. I was always told that fishing at this time of the year was best done at night. Since the Little Kanawha River has been fairly clear for a while, I will try that philosophy soon and see how it goes.

*    *    *    *

Summer Youth Program workers have been busy around Grantsville, painting benches and trash receptacles at the courthouse, cleaning streets, and removing weeds growing in the cracks of sidewalks. More are working at Calhoun Middle/ High School and other locations. It makes things look better and keeps the youths occupied.

*    *    *    *

An accident involving a tractor-trailer closed traffic on one lane of Rt. 16 just before the Ritchie county line on Tuesday afternoon. The scanner reported the truck was in the ditch, but no one was injured.

July 2, 2009

The smell of fresh-cut hay is in the air, at least it is at Pleasant Hill. Although the second cutting should be well on its way, many farmers are just now able to get the first cutting in. It may be a rough year for fodder.

*    *    *    *

The raccoon that has been terrorizing our house on a nightly basis showed us the reason why on Monday night. She has four little beggars running along behind her. They must like what the birds kick to the ground from the feeder, because nothing is left out overnight to feed them.

*    *    *    *

Mustang Survival of Elizabeth will open a new facility in the former BF Goodrich building in Spencer. The company expects to hire 20 people initially and hopes to employ about 100 in a few years.

*    *    *    *

Tuesday morning, a car hit a deer and went out of control on the straight just below Calhoun Auto Care on Rt. 16. The car stopped on the edge of the road bank, just short of going over the hill. One passenger was taken to Minnie Hamilton Health System for evaluation.

*    *    *    *

The new video page on the Calhoun Chronicle website that shows performances at the Calhoun Wood Festival has been well received. They include Calhoun Idol winner Autumn Blair, “Fat Boy” Houchin and Side FX, Dixie Moon, and Johnny Staats and Bluegrass Brand. Just Click HERE

June 25, 2009

Over the weekend, we were under the threat of major storms and flood watches. Now, it looks like we will have some sunny weather. Perhaps, meadows can get their first cutting since many of them are beyond golden.

*    *    *    *

Lester McCumbers of Nicut was a winner once again at the Folk Festival in Glenville last weekend in the elder fiddle category. Eugene Parsons of Orma placed third in the over 50 banjo category.

*    *    *    *

Grantsville Guppies 4-H club has signed a contract to take on the responsibility of keeping a section of Rt. 5 free from litter. There are still plenty of miles of highway in the county that need adopted for litter control. If you or your organization is interested in helping keep Calhoun clean, call 800-322-5530.

*    *    *    *

There has been a recall of Toll House cookie dough due to some people suffering from e-coli bacteria after ingesting the raw dough. Each package states in the directions that the dough should never be eaten raw. While there is no worry about e-coli in cookies that have been properly baked, it always seems that some of the dough just never makes it to the cookie sheet. From now on, I’ll just bake the cookies and eat them when they are nice and hot.

*    *    *    *

The burnt out skeleton of the house at the corner of Florence and River streets in Grantsville was taken down last week. Although the fire was declared arson at the time, no arrests have been made.

June 18, 2009

The jet stream is still following a more southerly route than usual for this time of year, providing the area with more rain than usual. Next month, we will probably not get any rain and will remember this month a little more fondly.

*    *    *    *

A raccoon decided that my bird feeder was available for any wild animal smart enough to gain access to it. He started his escapade by climbing a tree, going out on a limb over the feeder and lifting the top on one end so he could help himself to the contents. The next night, he lifted the entire feeder from its hanger on the limb and dropped it 12 feet onto the ground. He had a nice picnic that night, but will have no more. The feeder comes in when it gets dark, and the birds wake me up in the morning as soon as it is light, so I will take it back out.

*    *    *    *

The Grantsville Community Garden, planted in the plot where the old Hamilton house stood above the graded school, received attention this past weekend, and now has a fence surrounding it and a sign proclaiming it. The rain has been good for the garden, which seems to be coming along nicely.

*    *    *    *

Frontier high speed internet service was interrupted for over 24 hours last Tuesday and Wednesday, causing delays in updating our web pages. Even out here in the country, we still live in a wired world.

*    *    *    *

A Parma, Ohio, man accused of robbing the Arnoldsburg branch of Calhoun Banks in December, Darin Stephen McClain, has pleaded guilty to one count of unarmed robbery in federal court. Sentencing is set for July.

*    *    *    *

A new page has been added to the Calhoun Chronicle website. A video page is available to view several Wood Festival performances, including Calhoun Idol winner Autumn Blair, “Fat Boy” Houchin and Side FX, and Johnny Staats and Bluegrass Brand. A link to the videos is on the main page at www.calhounchronicle.com. If the project is well received, we will endeavor to post other videos.

June 11, 2009

Despite the predictions last Tuesday morning from the National Weather Service, it rained for the Wood Festival. It did dry up on Friday, although the fog on Friday night was so thick even bats had trouble flying through it. Saturday was just about the prettiest last day of the festival ever seen, sunny but not too hot.

*    *    *    *

The tree that was growing in the middle of the sidewalk island next to Dollar Store is no more. It seems that the tree’s roots had been breaking into the sewer lines, so it was cut down. It was one of the prettiest, white blooming trees each spring.

*    *    *    *

It seems that economic times can make some folks desperate. Several cars were broken into during daylight by “smash and grab” thieves on Saturday while the owners were enjoying activities on the West Fork and in Grantsville. Five of the thefts happened along Rt. 5 just east of the bridge, one was along west Main St., and three others at the southern end of the county. Anyone with information about these nefarious crimes can call Grantsville police, 354-7500, or the sheriff’s office, 354-6333.

*    *    *    *

Former Grantsville police chief J.D. Nicholson died on Monday at his residence in Walton. The cause of death is unknown at this time.

*    *    *    *

A woman from Sand Ridge, the edge of the Bear Fork wilderness, caught an unusual, unfriendly animal in a live trap last week. It had the markings of a strange looking cat, but was not a bobcat. She turned it over to DNR officer Eric Bostic for identification. Finding nothing wrong with the cat, he released it back into the wild close to Bear Fork. A woman came forward who owned the cat and said that it had escaped when a satellite installer left her door open. Bostic took her to where he released the cat, but it is yet to be found.

*    *    *    *

It was nice to see familiar faces in the crowds at the Wood Festival. While some festivals are getting smaller, thanks to the hard work and dedication of all the volunteers associated with it, the Wood Festival seems to be growing in popularity.

June 4, 2009

Hayfields are being mowed and the rain may actually hold off until the hay is put up and the Wood Festival is over. That doesn’t happen very often.

*    *    *    *

Someone was looking over a program for the Wood Festival Chorus from 1964 and noticed that there were 45 businesses sponsoring the event. Now, 45 years later, only seven of those businesses remain: Furr’s Auto Sales, The Calhoun Chronicle, Calhoun Insurance Agency, J&B Drug Store, Smith’s Auto Repair, Stump Funeral Home, and Meadow Gold Dairy (now Dairy Products, Inc.). 

*    *    *    *

Thunderstorms, accompanied by high winds, went through the area last Saturday night and caused some minor damage and put on a spectacular light show . . . in my yard. My telephones are now history and any other lightning damage will show up soon.

*    *    *    *

Excitement has been building all week in anticipation of the start of the Wood Festival on Thursday. There will be many good musical acts, lots of booths featuring arts and crafts, tasty food, carnival rides for   the kids, and a new event, Calhoun Idol contest. I am looking forward to all the events and I am sure I will see you there.

*    *    *    *

Frontier internet service was out for much of the weekend for folks in the county, due to a cable being severed in Wood County. It was a minor inconvenience for most, but a serious problem for businesses who take credit and debit cards.

May 28, 2009

The ground was starting to crack and gardens were beginning to look a little parched until rain began falling early this week. It was welcomed by all, except those who have been thinking about cutting their hay. The heavy seed heads were bent low by the precipitation, but a few days of sunshine should stand them up.

*    *    *    *

Rt. 16 North of Grantsville had the trash picked up last week by the same gentleman as before. It looked beautiful the first day, had a few pieces of trash the next day, and, unless folks stop throwing garbage out the windows of their vehicles, will be a mess in a few weeks.

*    *    *    *

A young couple were observed floating on an air mattress down the Little Kanawha River on Sunday. They started out at the boat launch above Grantsville in the early afternoon, winding up in town almost five hours later.             

 They highly recommend that anyone attempting the same trip in sunny circumstances use sunscreen . . . lots of sunscreen. They also mentioned that the juice of the aloe vera plant is very soothing in the short term for sunburn.

*    *    *    *

Despite everything else they have to eat, deer have been sneaking into yards and feasting on flowers and ferns. Some people are starting to get more than a little upset with the thieves and will soon be bouncing stones off of their hides.

*    *    *    *

Memorial Day is a time for remembering loved ones, honoring those who gave their lives for our freedom, and family mini-reunions. Several groups of family members met at the courthouse or in the town parking lot in Grantsville on Monday, so that they could all go together to various graveyards. Over the weekend, there were many family barbecues all over the county.

May 21, 2009

Scattered late frost was in the area on Monday and Tuesday mornings; otherwise, temperatures this week will be quite nice. There is a slight chance of showers for Memorial Day, with temperatures in the mid-70s.

*    *    *    *

The large PATH power line that was proposed to go through near Grantsville now appears to cutting across the bottom of Calhoun in the Mudfork-Walnut area. The width of the proposed area is big enough that the line could miss Calhoun altogether.

*    *    *    *

Hayfields in Calhoun are getting golden seed heads in preparation for the first cutting of the season. Some folks cut their hay around Memorial Day, and others wait for the first week of June.

*    *    *    *

The Little Kanawha River is starting to look good for fishing. It might be a good time to gather the kids and go wet a line.

*    *    *    *

West Virginia’s Vandalia Gathering will celebrate its 33rd anniversary this weekend on the Capitol Grounds in Charleston. It is the place to be for mountain traditional music, arts, crafts and lies. Biggest Liars Contest is one of the highlights of the weekend and Calhoun has had winners in the event.

May 14, 2009

Calhoun County received at least a little bit of luck when heavy rains that were forecast for last Friday night and Saturday morning fell far to the south.

*    *    *    *

Fireflies have been making their appearance in the evening hours and Luna moths have been seeking outdoor lights.

*    *    *    *

Residents living along the Little Kanawha River were concerned late last week when heavy rains caused water at Burnsville Lake to raise 12 feet higher than normal, flooding campgrounds and launching ramps. When the rains stopped and the water level receded downstream, excess water was released from the dam, which maintained or raised the level of the river above its banks.

*    *    *    *

Last week’s flooding may have destroyed the nesting sites of waterfowl along the river. After water began to recede, Canadian geese and several species of duck were spotted walking along the water’s edge without the little fuzz balls that would have been accompanying them in another few weeks.

*    *    *    *

Randall Arnold of Millstone has unearthed a very strange looking rock, while digging with a backhoe about six feet under ground. It has the appearance of a very large bone. He plans to have the artifact evaluated to see what it is.

May 7, 2009

Heavy rain caused flooding in the county on Monday. The forecast for midweek called for more rain, with dry conditions for the weekend.

*    *    *    *

Tasty springtime treats, known as morel mushrooms, are still coming up. The gray, white and giant yellow morels are ripe for harvest. There are only a few weeks left for you to get out and pick some.

*    *    *    *

Police were involved in a chase across four counties last Friday night and Saturday morning. It began on Altizer Road, west of Arnoldsburg, and the driver continued toward Roane County and into Mason and Jackson counties before eluding authorities. A Calhoun man, Gary Ackley, called Sheriff Allen Parsons on Satur-day afternoon to turn himself in.

*    *    *    *

Former Grantsville police chief J.D. Nicholson was allegedly attacked by an unknown assailant on the porch of his home in Walton. Roane County Sheriff’s Dept. is investigating.

*    *    *    *

A local woman was killed and a man injured on Saturday in a four-wheeler accident near Stumptown. The obituary for Amber Nichole Lamp, 24, of Big Springs, is on page two of this week's print edition and on the obituary page of this website.

April 30, 2009

Even though the calendar says it is still spring, thermometers showed summertime temperatures of 92 degrees on Saturday and 91 on Sunday at my house. Thunderstorms were to cool things by midweek. Temperatures on the weekend will still be in the 70’s.

*    *    *    *

Carpenter bees (wood boring bees that look like bumblebees) have been hanging around my decks and dive-bombing anyone who comes out. This is the time of year that I get to practice my tennis swings. I don’t play tennis, I just swat the big bees. Actually it is a squash racquet -- the shorter handle increases the thrill.

After years of being swatted, the bees seem to be a little bit smarter. I walk out on the deck and one (or more) will appear in front of my face to challenge me. As soon as I pick up my tennis racket, they disappear. I have to hide it alongside my leg or behind my back, and then they will come, and die. I have been able to greatly improve my backhand.

*    *    *    *

A local man was observed cleaning up trash on Town Hill by himself. He gathered quite a few bags of trash in his endeavor and made the roadway look very nice--until thoughtless people kept on throwing trash out of their cars. Now, it is almost as bad as it was before.

*    *    *    *

Improvements are being made in Grantsville. Main Street Cafe is having an awning installed over the deck in front of the establishment. It will provide shelter for folks who use the walk-up window.

*    *    *    *

There was a mild earthquake last Friday morning, centered near Gallipolis, Ohio. These earthquakes may be associated with the New Madrid Seismic Zone, located midway between St. Louis and Memphis. It has a history of shaking violently, about every 500 years. When it shook for three months in 1811-12, this was the western frontier, and the population was sparse. If it shook with that magnitude again, the devastation could be worse than that caused by Hurricane Katrina.

*    *    *    *

Some in Calhoun are concerned about the swine flu outbreak that is beginning to spread northward from Mexico. According to USDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu viruses are not transmitted by food, so you cannot get swine flu from eating pork or pork products. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills other food borne pathogens.

April 23, 2009

Apple trees, dogwoods, red buds and trilliums make walking in the woods a pleasure this time of year. Grab your camera and your loved ones and take a hike this weekend.

*    *    *    *

The county continues to buzz with rumors and worry about the murder of two county residents in the Millstone area. State police are still following leads and are working to solve the case.

*    *    *    *

Fire destroyed a trailer on Pink Road last Wednesday morning. It had reportedly been empty for about a month.

*    *    *    *

A spokesman for the new PATH high-voltage power line, slated to come through Calhoun County around 2013, said that the project has been delayed by a year due to the current drop in demand for electricity because of the recession.

*    *    *    *

The unemployment rate for Calhoun in March was 14.3%. Hopefully, that number will drop as seasonal jobs open up for unemployed residents.

*    *    *    *

Wild turkeys continue to issue challenges every morning to other tom turkeys--and the hunters who are preparing for spring gobbler season.

*    *    *    *

The weather forecast for this weekend is looking very good. Temperatures will be in the low 80’s with mostly sunny skies. It should be excellent weather for going fishing or morel hunting, and taking photos of wildflowers.

April 16, 2009

Typical springtime weather was in force last week. Cold, warm, chilly, rainy and sunny, and that was just Wednesday. Whippoorwills and screech owls are singing nightly, and wood ticks have made an appearance. Be sure to check the kids for ticks after they play outside.

*    *    *    *

Morel mushrooms are really coming on strong. Although I was unable to look for them last weekend, reports indicate that this may be a banner year for finding plenty of the little delicacies. Morels are very good for you. On their own, before cooking, I doubt they have many calories or grams of fat, and I guarantee that you will lose weight if you climb the hills looking for them.

*    *    *    *

There were reports of a rather large rabbit or bunny hopping through area yards over the weekend, hiding things in clumps of grass and littering. It was deemed not to be the crime of misdemeanor littering when it was discovered that the bunny was only leaving behind candy and other prizes. Children from all over the county volunteered to search for all the left behind stuff and dispose of it themselves.

*    *    *    *

Many area residents attended the Mustang Survival job fair in Spencer last week. People were able to fill out applications for the jobs which are reported to pay $8 an hour, with benefits. Mustang makes flight suits for NASA and the military. The Elizabeth company stands to benefit from a federal stimulus package that requires products for the government to be manufactured in the U.S. The proposed Spencer location could eventually employ more than 100 people.

April 9, 2009

Old man winter came by for a brief visit this week. Tuesday morning, we were treated to a little dusting of snow with large flakes floating down most of the day. Several days previously were nice and warm with rain showers. Morel mushrooms are tall enough to harvest for those who look among the poplars close to the top of the hills.

*    *    *    *

A head-on collision between a car and a pickup truck on Rt. 5 at the Calhoun-Wirt line sent three people to hospitals last Friday. One of the victims was flown to Charleston with a possible head injury. Grantsville and Wirt County volunteer fire departments responded to the scene and used extraction devices to rescue the victims.

*    *    *    *

An electric pole caught fire in the rain on Saturday at Pleasant Hill. Although there was no real damage to property, Grantsville VFD discovered the cause of the blaze--a squirrel. The tiny arsonist lost his life in the inferno.

*    *    *    *

Fishing is still good for those willing to get wet. Big Bend resident Caleb Schoolcraft caught a 45-inch muskie on Sunday that weighed 23 lbs.

*    *    *    *

A compressor station located on Crooked Run at Orma, oper-ated by Dominion, developed a problem early Monday morning when, apparently, a steel ball that is used to push fluid through the line became stuck and caused a relief valve to vent pressurized natural gas with a loud whistling noise.

*    *    *    *

Some of Calhoun County’s geocaches have been seeing activity. If you have a GPS device and are interested in the sport of geocaching, go to www.geocaching.com and type your zip code into the search box to see what you can find. There are some nice ones here and plenty more in surrounding counties.

*    *    *    *

During Monday’s session of Calhoun circuit court, Judge David Nibert rejected a binding plea agreement of defendant Christopher Todd Smith. The defendant withdrew his guilty plea and the court ordered parties back to the original standing. His next court appearance is scheduled May 5.

April 2, 2009

Soaking rains have lowered the immediate threat of brush fires in the area and have pushed spring blossoming into high gear. Trilliums and mayapple are coming up, redbuds are showing color, and morels are just beginning to show. While too small to harvest, brown morels should be ready by next weekend.

*    *    *    *

Ramps are ready to dig and are tasty springtime treats. Though there is no longer a ramp festival in the county, there will probably be some ramp dinners held by local organizations.

*    *    *    *

I am looking forward to the first cutting of the lawn that, traditionally, occurs just after Easter. The clumps of high grass are perfect for egg hiding (although the grandchildren have figured that out) .

*    *    *    *

Paris and Orva Parsons of Minnora were lucky to escape injury last Wednesday when their car went off Rt. 16 and crashed before going into the West Fork.

*    *    *    *

Residents of Millstone and Arnoldsburg reported a drop in water pressure on Wednesday morning last week and complete loss of water most of the day. Service was restored on Wednesday evening.

*    *    *    *

The price of gasoline has begun to rise again. It must be almost time for folks to go on vacation. It seems that when the time to drive far distances comes around, the price goes up enough to keep us from going far. That’s alright, there are  plenty of places nearby to keep us occupied, happy and spending our money in West Virginia.

*    *    *    *

Fishing is starting to pick up. Local anglers have been busy trying to catch the “big one.” I would be happy to catch just one. I may be losing my touch as I “mature.”

March 26, 2009

The very dry weather this spring has made the woodlands extremely susceptible to fire. Please don’t burn anything outside until we get some rain. Even cigarette smoking can spark a brush fire, so be extra careful when extinguishing them. If you are found responsible for a brush fire, you can be found liable for any damages caused by that fire.

*    *    *    *

Ramps are beginning to peek through the old leaves in the woods. It will be nice to fry some up with a pan of potatoes and bacon in a week or so.

*    *    *    *

The large magnolia tree at the south end of Main St. in Grantsville has been trying to bloom this week, but the cold weather is holding it back. Its blooming has suffered in recent years due to late frosts, but was spectacular last year.

*    *    *    *

A trial to hear motions has been set for Apr. 17 in Gilmer County circuit court for Grantsville resident John Manis Richards, related to charges stemming from an alleged theft of over $33,000 in materials and equipment last July from Hardman Supply, Glenville.

The trial was delayed when Richards’ attorney’s office was destroyed by a fire. Two  judges, Richard A. Facemire and Jack Alsop, have recused themselves from the case because of information concerning them that had been listed on two websites.

Larry V. Starcher, former State supreme court justice, has been recalled for temporary assignment to hear the case, which is scheduled in May.

*    *    *    *

The highway department kept roads in pretty good shape all winter and has begun the annual spring brush hogging. I hope that the redbud trees along the edges of Rt. 16 north of Grantsville are not cut until they show their colors. They always make a great contrast with the white dogwoods.

March 19, 2009

The hills and valleys continue to turn green in anticipation of the official arrival of spring at 11:44 a.m. on Friday, Mar. 20. Turkeys have been singing in the morning and the larger groups they ran with during the winter are beginning to break up. There seem to be plenty of them to provide good hunting.

*    *    *    *

Lilacs leaves are showing, forsythia is about to bloom and weeping willows are showing streamers of green. Tulips should be showing off their flowers in another week. Enjoy it all and be sure to take plenty of photographs.

*    *    *    *

Folks have been spotted on the banks of the Little Kanawha River doing some early fishing. A few have been seen enjoying a little boating and fishing below the launching ramp on Rt. 7. Good luck to all and may the big ones stay on the line, at least until you can see them.

*    *    *    *

Work continues on the courthouse roof in Grantsville. Mon-day afternoon, a crane truck from Modern Builders of Mineral Wells was parked on the lawn beside the south side of the courthouse to lift the materials to the top of the three-story structure to re-roof that section. Quite a few of the people on the sidewalks took a break to watch the action that went without a hitch.

*    *    *    *

The walking path at Underwood Field has more users since the weather has begun to warm up. Walking is an easy and cost-free way to lose weight, lower cholesterol and keep in shape. Depending on the individual, an average of 100 calories is burned per mile walked. There are between 1,760 and 2,640 steps in a mile (depending on your stride). An average fitness-walking pace is about 15 minutes per mile. The pace varies depending on your fitness level, technique, goals, and terrain.

For general fitness walking, you should walk at a pace that increases your heart rate, and one that you can maintain for 30 to 60 minutes. Try the talk test-- if you can’t say a sentence without gasping for air you are walking too fast; if you are walking slowly enough that you can sing a song, you are probably walking too slow.

Since walking is good for the body and the soul, I suspect the hiking paths through the woods at Calhoun County Park will see a lot more use once the wild flowers begin to blossom.

March 12, 2009

The first week of March ended with spring-like warmth. Temperatures were close to 80 degrees and gardens were getting plowed. Night crawlers are already out on warm, rainy nights, calling to those who fish to get ready for spring fishing.

Robins and bluebirds have re-appeared in the area and spring peepers insure us all that we have made it through the worst of winter. Spring is just around the corner and now is the time to enjoy the early flowers.

*    *    *    *

Spring brush fire season is here and local fire departments have already been called into action. Outdoor burning, when it is windy, is never a good idea. Follow the burning laws and use common sense when doing any outdoor burning.

*    *    *    *

The highway department has been taking advantage of the good weather to patch some of the holes that winter weather has made in the roads. Some paving projects are set for later this year in the county.

*    *    *    *

Two men from Calhoun have been charged for allegedly breaking into Barker’s Marathon in Smithville last June. Keith Allen Lamp, 23, was arrested in Jackson County and taken to North Central Regional Jail. John Frederick Fisher, 29, was also arrested.

The men are charged with breaking and entering, theft, and felony destruction of property. According to the Ritchie County magistrate clerk’s office, bond has been set at $10,000 each.

*    *    *    *

An accident about two miles East of Grantsville on Rt. 7 in the Enon straight claimed the life of a Creston man on Wednesday, Mar. 4. Chris Bell, 21, was traveling toward Russett when his vehicle went out of control and struck a road bank.

March 5, 2009

March came in pretty much like a lamb on Sunday in Calhoun, while slamming almost the entire East Coast with a snowstorm. Goldfinches at the bird feeder are beginning to  lose their dull colored winter feathers in order to gain the beautiful golden plumage of summer.

*    *    *    *

Daylight Saving Time begins at 2 a.m. on Sunday. Set your clock ahead one hour so you can get up early and enjoy an extra hour of daylight in the evening. Monday morning will be fun when you have to wake the kids up an hour earlier than usual.

*    *    *    *

Residents are already tired of the new mandatory ten-digit dialing required for local calls. Once the new 681 area code is issued for new customers, you will have to ask people, even a new neighbor, for their complete phone number just to make sure.

*    *    *    *

Mar. 7, 1967, saw the largest flood in history for the Little Kanawha River at Grantsville, cresting at 43.9 feet. Leon (Big) Yoak operated a temporary ferry boat to get people from the road in front of the high school to Rt. 16, so they could get to town.

The water was so high that Yoak took his motorboat over the fence at the end of the football field without touching. Johnboats were tied to the pillars of Rainbow Hotel and Restaurant along Court St. and boats maneuvered down Mill St. to deliver hot meals to folks who stayed in their homes throughout the flood.

*    *    *    *

Wild onions are pushing their way up through the leaves (when the ground isn’t frozen brick-hard) and some crocus are blooming (when not snow-covered). It won’t be too long before ramps come up and morel mushrooms are peeking up from the forest floor.

February 26, 2009

As a reminder that winter still has three official weeks left on the calendar, up to four inches of snow blanketed the area on Sunday morning. There were some minor accidents caused by the slick roads, but the snow was of the beautiful variety that adhered to tree limbs and made the woods look like a postcard, although it made walking difficult for dogs with short legs. It is forecast to warm up this week with a chance of rain. For the courageous, onion sets are now available for planting.

*    *    *    *

The windstorm last week blew away the Calhoun County flag outside the Chronicle office. After a brief search, it was decided that the flag was probably gone forever. It was later found by a county resident wrapped around a stop sign on Mill Street and returned. You just can’t beat the honesty and integrity of Calhoun people.

*    *    *    *

Winifred White of Chloe will be honored Feb. 26 at W.Va. State University at Institute. She will be presented with an “Un-sung Heroes” award at the 7th annual Civil Rights Day awards ceremony.

 *    *    *    *

The historic Corder bridge, located on Rts. 33/119 at the Roane-Calhoun line, is scheduled for replacement sometime this year. It was suppose to be replaced in 2007, but was delayed by complications. The new bridge will be constructed next to the old one using steel I-beams with concrete decking.

It is estimated that the project, including straightening about a half mile of roadway, will take about two years to complete. A plan released in 2005 listed the cost as $1.5 million, but it will likely be more now.

*    *    *    *

Grantsville Volunteer Fire Dept. has a new rescue truck in service. It is fully equipped for emergencies, including an air bag that can lift up to 28 tons. The truck was obtained with grant money and help from local sources and businesses.

*    *    *    *

The Chronicle website, www.calhounchronicle.com, is attracting more and more viewers from around the county, the country and the world. It is updated every Wednesday with feature stories, sports page, and when available, photos of the week.

February 19, 2009

A mighty wind blew through the region on Wednesday night of last week, causing quite a bit of damage and scaring hilltop residents with a roar as loud as thunder. National Weather Ser-vice showed wind speed recorded at Wood County airport in excess of 70 miles per hour.

Locally, about 2,000 residents were without electrical power, and damage was listed as blown-over trees, property damage to barns and outbuildings, missing roof tiles and tin, and exchange of children’s outside toys from yard to yard.

The sign at Pleasant Hill U.M. Church had its frame twisted out of shape. The sign was recovered from across the road and some distance over the hill. The large American flag at the courthouse received damage and now has a rip in it.

If a wind that strong had come through the area after the trees were in full-leaf, the damage would have been much worse.

*    *    *    *

The days are getting longer now and more flowers are beginning to come up. Tulips, daffodils and some I have yet to identify are peeking through the leaves.

*    *    *    *

A reader was concerned about the 75 years ago segment missing from “This Week in History.” The problem lies in the microfiche reel for 1934 at the library. It doesn’t begin until October. We will add it to the column when it is available.

February 12, 2009

Winter’s grip on Calhoun loosened a little this past week. Temperatures over the weekend were in the 60’s and almost all of the snow has melted. There are still patches of ice in sheltered hollows, but the warmth and rainfall this week will take care of that.

*       *       *       *

The first spring flowers that we see at our house, delicate little white snowdrops, are already coming up and will be blooming by the end of the month. Songbirds are beginning to pay us back for the food we gave them this winter by regaling us with their spring calls of joy.

*       *       *       *

Monday, Feb. 16, marks the sixth anniversary of the ice storm that hit the region in 2003 and caused so much devastation to woodlands.

*       *       *       *

Even though the mandatory switch from analog to digital TV has been delayed by congress, only WOAY, Oak Hill, will continue to broadcast an analog signal. The other stations will discontinue analog broadcasting on Tuesday, Feb. 17. Remember, reading is good for the soul, uses much less electricity, and allows the imagination to add special effects to stories.

*       *       *       *

People on the streets of Grantsville seemed to be in better spirits this week, since they were able to walk about without a heavy coat on, face turned away from the wind and snow. The rain that is due will most likely turn those smiles upside down.

*       *       *       *

The national unemployment rate rose to 7.6 percent in January. West Virginia posted an unemployment rate of 4.4 percent in December, while Calhoun County was at 7.7. With all the layoffs that occur each week throughout the country, we could soon be below the national average.

February 5, 2009

January ended with cold, snow, rain, sleet, and all the problems that brings to those who walk on two legs and drive on four wheels. The middle of last week had the region under a winter storm warning that forced many cancellations.

On Sunday, the weather warmed just enough to melt some of the snow off the hillsides and back roads in time for folks to go to Super Bowl parties and to make way for the snow that is due to fall this week.

*       *       *       *

The Pennsylvania groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, saw his shadow on Monday, but French Creek Freddie was treated to a cloudy day. Since Freddie didn’t see his shadow, perhaps winter will be over soon. 

*       *       *       *

There were many accidents in Calhoun in the past week due to the slick roads. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured. The pastures and hillsides were marked with the straight lines of sleds and resounded with the laughter of children building snowmen and having snowball fights. 

*       *       *       *

Although many people were surprised last Wednesday that the paper was available when they stopped to buy one, the Chronicle has not missed a day due to weather in well over 20 years.

*       *       *       *

The new president attempted to get the date for digital TV conversion pushed back to June 12. The Senate passed the bill last Monday, but the bill failed to pass in the House of Representatives. For now, that means your off-the-air broadcasts will end Feb. 17, if you aren’t ready for the switch.

*       *       *       *

Mandatory 10-digit dialing on all local calls, except 911, will begin at the end of this month. Make sure you are ready for the change by practicing now and setting up your phone’s internal phonebook for the changeover.  

January 29, 2009

Mother Nature is once again in charge of Calhoun County. More snow began falling around 2 a.m. on Tuesday. The entire area was under a severe winter storm warning and a flood watch in case the rain melts all the snow. It is supposed to clear up by Saturday, so maybe it won’t interfere with Super Bowl Sunday.

*       *       *       *

Five Forks resident Charlie Blair has had to endure another fire. Two years ago this month, Charlie’s house burned to the ground and now a mobile home he was living in has burned. Blair suffered second degree burns in this fire, but vows to start over again.

*       *       *       *

Another fire at Sinking Springs of Wednesday of last week destroyed the home and all possessions of Darren and Alma Graffius. They were both at work and their daughter Carrie was at school. The family is in need of everything. You can help them by calling 655-7209 or mailing contributions to P.O. Box 153, Arnoldsburg, WV 25234.

*       *       *       *

There seemed to be hundreds of birds coming to the feeder with the onset of all this bad weather. I hope they appreciate the foresight involved in getting extra sunflower seed home before the storm hit. I can guarantee there is not much to be found for them to eat in the woods right now.

*       *       *       *

Seriously folks, I am still looking for a gas refrigerator, since mine malfunctioned. If you have one, call 354-7164 or 354-9373.

January 22, 2009

Mother Nature forced many cancellations last week and the expected cold exceeded predictions of the weather service last weekend.  Temperatures on Friday and Saturday mornings registered 6.7 degrees below zero on our digital thermometer. That is brutally cold.

When temperatures climbed above the freezing mark late Saturday afternoon, the gas froze off, allowing our gas refrigerator to build pressure and pop a leak. The stench of ammonia at 1:30 a.m. will definitely wake you up. Anybody have a spare gas refrigerator?

*       *       *       *

An early morning electrical fire in the home of Jeffery and Sherry Farrell on Leafbank Road last Thursday was brought under control when the smoke and flames awakened two children who immediately alerted everyone to the danger. Some family members carried furniture and valuables outside, while others used several gallons of bottled water and a water hose to battle the blaze until the fire department was able to get to the scene. The home was saved, and tragedy averted, by the quick action of the two boys, Zach and Douglas Farrell.

*       *       *       *

Carbon monoxide fumes apparently overcame two Orma residents early on Saturday morning, when the temperatures dipped below zero. Two residents of the home, located near Orma Post Office, were transported to Minnie Hamilton Health System for treatment, after one of them called 911 in a confused state.

*       *       *       *

Sunday evening, a couple of hoot owls declared war on each other just below our house. It all started with one calling and then another answering. It was a magical moment of two lost nocturnal birds finding a friend. They got closer together as time passed, and then it sounded like the audio of a jungle movie as they came face to face. Either it was a good fight or there will be a few more hoot owls come spring. We seem to have quite a few owls, of many species, in our holler. I look forward to the song of the whippoorwill that will come in just a few more weeks.

January 15, 2009

Typical January weather has been the name of the game in the region, with more to come. The forecast calls for snow mid-week. For Friday night, the low temperature could be one degree above zero. Better wrap your water pipes and see to your outside animals.

*       *       *       *

Christopher Goldston, 29, a Nevada native, was discovered unresponsive in a camper at Leatherbark on Saturday night. Emergency services were called in, but were unable to revive the man. The body was sent to the State Medical Examiner’s office in South Charleston to determine the cause of death.

*       *       *       *

Potholes along the highways are beginning to grow with the worsening weather, but the Dept. of Highways has been doing a good job keeping the roads cleared of snow. If you travel to an adjoining county on a snowy day, you will appreciate Calhoun’s hard-working crews. When it warms up, they can fill the potholes.

*       *       *       *

It’s definitely time to remember to keep your bird feeders full. When there is snow on the ground and the weather is cold, they depend on you to keep fed.

The birds around my house only eat sunflower seeds and    if  I buy “birdseed” at the   store, they will pick out the sunflower seeds and kick the rest out on the ground. They also like to have a suet cake or two to peck at--when I remember to get them.

January 8, 2009

The year ended in tragedy for a Grantsville woman.

Mellody Rush, 32, apparently got her vehicle stuck in a private driveway in the Russett area and fell over a rock cliff when she became disoriented after leaving the vehicle to seek help in the darkness.

 Her sister called 911 to report her missing around 1:50 a.m. on Jan. 1, beginning a search by Grantsville volunteer firemen. Her body was found at the bottom of a ravine near Sycamore Creek.

*       *       *       *

The new year has brought changes in getting a driver’s license renewed. Everyone is now required to have a vision test before being licensed to drive. Vision screening machines have been installed at all DMV offices and are not supposed to add much extra time to take the test. If you fail the test, you will have to go to an optometrist for a complete vision test and optical correction before receiving your license.

*       *       *       *

If you already have a digital television, or a converter box, or if you receive cable or satellite TV you can skip this. If you don’t, and still get reception from the airwaves, you have until Feb. 17 to prepare for digital TV. According to some local residents who have already made the switch, the stations you can receive are crystal clear with no “snow” or lines of interference (even though the antenna reception before was snowy). If the signal isn’t strong enough you will get nothing.

*       *       *       *

You might want to start dialing all ten digits for local calls so that you can get used to the dialing rules taking effect at the end of February. It is also time to reprogram all the local numbers in your telephone memory and your computer, if you use dial-up.

January 1, 2009

No snow for Christmas this year, again. There was much warmer than usual temperatures that came in with a big wind and left the same way. Many yard ornaments were doing some serious dancing in yards and on rooftops.

*       *       *       *

Saturday afternoon was quiet in the county as many residents were inside watching the WVU Mountaineers play in the Meineke Car Care Bowl. The Mountaineers won the game 31-30 to end the college career of Pat White with a record four straight bowl victories as a starting quarterback.

*       *       *       *

Immediately following the football game, fans could watch the WVU basketball team upset No. 15 Ohio State, 76-48, to end the nation’s longest current winning streak.

*       *       *       *

Wednesday night is New Year’s Eve, so remember while you are counting down the seconds until 2009 to add one “leap second.” As the saying goes, every second counts and in the case of leap seconds, that is especially true.

Leap seconds are needed to reconcile two very different ways of measuring time. Traditionally, we have reckoned time by the spin of the Earth and its orbit around the sun. Under this astronomical arrangement, a second is one-86,400th of our planet’s daily rotation. Because of tidal friction and other natural phenomena, that rotation is slowing down by about two-thousandths of a second a day.

Since the 1950s, atomic clocks -- which are based on the unwavering motions of cesium atoms -- have made it possible to measure time more accurately, to within a billionth of a second a day. Every 500 days or so, the difference between the time registered on those clocks and time as registered by the Earth’s rotation adds up to about a second.

*       *       *       *

Thursday is Jan. 1, 2009, so don’t forget to set your calendar ahead one year.

*       *       *       *

Two men have been arrested for allegedly being accessories in the Arnoldsburg bank robbery. Beau Allen Collins, 26, of Arnoldsburg and Richard Allen Starcher, 29, of Spencer have been charged with being an accessory to bank robbery.

December 25, 2008

Winter began Sunday, Dec. 21, and Monday, the first full day of winter, made believers out of all of us. Area schools were on a two-hour delay due to single digit temperatures and a wind chill factor below zero.

*       *       *       *

National Weather Service says we will not have a white Christmas this year. It is going to warm up just enough to turn our precipitation into rain and not snow.

*       *       *       *

The U.S. Census Bureau will be hiring people in Calhoun County for the 2010 Census. Work will begin in January. Testing was scheduled Tuesday, Dec. 23, 3 to 6 p.m., at the Senior Citizens Center, Grantsville. Anyone wanting to take the test must bring a photo ID issued by the DMV and one of  the following: a birth certificate, or a passport (expired ones are okay) or a Social Security card. They must be at least 18 and a legal U.S. citizen.

For information call 1-866-861-2010 or visit www.census. gov/detroit to take a practice test.

*       *       *       *

High winds over the weekend made it difficult for some of the holiday yard ornaments in the county. It wouldn’t have surprised me to see Santa, penguins and snowmen flying across the sky, making excellent time with a strong tailwind.

*       *       *       *

Hunters were spotted in the woods on Saturday hunting with muzzle loading rifles. I know they are some of the safest hunters in the woods, after all, they only get one shot and they have to make it count.

December 18, 2008

Deer kills were down slightly in the state this season, in spite of the snow cover on the ground, which made the critters a little easier to spot. Maybe everyone’s car insurance will go down a little, since there will be fewer four-legged road hazards.

*       *       *       *

While snow is beautiful on the trees and on the ground, it does a number on inflatable yard decorations. All it takes is about a half-inch of snow and the inflatables cannot stand the pressure. In one yard featuring an inflatable Jimmy Johnson NASCAR racing machine, it appears that Jimmy couldn’t handle the turn and flipped over on his side, while Santa and some penguins are just laying around waiting for the thaw.

*       *       *       *

A former volunteer Grantsville police officer will be spending a little time in jail. Shane Dellinger was sentenced to 60 days in Central Regional Jail and two years probation for a conviction of falsifying time slips when he was a sheriff’s deputy in Braxton County.

*       *       *       *

I thought Santa was coming into town last Friday evening when I heard what sounded like sleigh bells coming down Main Street. It turned out to be a school bus with the new hanging chains underneath.

*       *       *       *

A court case in Gilmer County for John Manis Richards concerning an alleged theft from Hardman Supply, Glenville, has been rescheduled Jan. 6, and may have to be postponed beyond that date. The office of his attorney has burned.

*       *       *       *

A full moon last week provided the brightest midnight light seen in many years. The moon was at its closest point to Earth and the snow covering turned night into almost day. I strolled around my yard and saw deer walking the hills around my house and a rabbit sitting across the road.

December 11, 2008

A couple of inches of snow and extremely cold temperatures over the weekend made driving hazardous and caused the can-cellation of some events around the area. The coming week looks like rain, followed by more of the white stuff. Maybe we will have a white Christmas this year.

*       *       *       *

Although it was cold, windy and snowing on Saturday, area hunters were out and about. The stillness of the afternoon snow-fall was broken often by the sound of gunfire as deer had no place to hide.

*       *       *       *

You know times are hard when folks come from out-of-state to rob a bank in Calhoun County.

*       *       *       *

The town of Grantsville sure looks pretty this year. Businesses have decorated their windows, beautiful lights are hanging from the electric poles, and residents all over the county have put out lighted displays to make us all proud.

*       *       *       *

In spite of the cold weather last Friday evening, many people were on hand to view  the Christmas parade and see Santa arrive. At least one of the little ones was overheard telling Santa that he wanted summer weather for Christmas. He was just plain tired of being cold.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville volunteer firemen responded to a garage fire on Barnes run last Friday evening, and through their quick response were able to put out the fire and save a nearby residence and other buildings. All of the volunteers in the county who do so much are to be applauded.

December 4, 2008

The snow that covered my decks two weeks ago has now almost melted away. There is a little more snow in the forecast for deer hunters and to help people get in the Christmas spirit.

*       *       *       *

There seemed to be a lull in the annual shooting fest last Thursday afternoon and then I realized it was time for everyone to sit down for Thanksgiving dinner.

*       *       *       *

My Thanksgiving was both filling and fulfilling as I realized that I had much to be thankful for and very little about which to complain.

*       *       *       *

There were two does and a buck lying by the side of the road just as you come into Grantsville on Rt. 16 North. I’m not sure if they were hit by a car, shot, or just came into town on a bad day.

*       *       *       *

I received an update on the address labels mentioned last week. The director of the E-911 addressing program informed me that your old address (when you are notified that it is, indeed, old) will still be valid for one year. Since Christmas is over a year away, you may still need to inform everyone on your Christmas card list of your address change before next year.

*       *       *       *

Many big bucks have been harvested so far this season and there are still some big ones left for the dedicated hunter. The herds do seem to be thinning out and deer are more skittish now that the season is in full swing. I don’t see them standing along the roads in the evening like they were before.

*       *       *       *

Since many people have asked me about giving a class on digital photography, I am now looking for input from those who may be interested in taking a class. Do you want to learn how to shoot pictures or how to process them, or both. Not all cameras are created equal, so it may actually be your camera that is causing problems. There are ways to compensate for that.

I figure that I have saved thousands of dollars since I switched from film to digital back in the early nineties and I am taking better pictures than before too. So can you. See my ad in this week’s paper for more details.

November 27, 2008

Bitterly cold weather closed out last week, with morning temperatures on Saturday at 10 degrees.

 *       *       *       *

The beginning of bucks only season had freezing rain in the early morning hours. Some light snow is predicted for Tuesday and Wednesday, with a warmer and sunny Thanksgiving Day.

*       *       *       *

This is a county of neighbors. If you know any shut-ins or elderly people who cannot cook a holiday meal, share some of your Thanksgiving feast. You will feel better for it and they will give thanks to you.

*       *       *       *

According to Calhoun’s addressing and mapping coordinator, the Postal Service Address Management office in Charleston has approved new addresses and residents will receive a letter of notification.

Those little return address labels you may have ready to put on your Christmas cards may not be valid, so get ready to write it on each envelope this year.

*       *       *       *

There were no injuries in an accident at Big Bend when a driver lost control of a car and drove into the High Rise Pizza establishment. Just what we need around here, a drive-through pizza place.

*       *       *       *

In years past, there were folks who rooted for the deer during deer season. They liked seeing the deer standing in the meadows in the evening sun, heads lifted, antlers shining, looking just like a wildlife painting.

The over-abundance of deer now allows people to see entire herds standing in the middle of the road as drivers come around a blind curve.

Hitting an opossum or raccoon with your car makes you feel bad. Hitting a deer and totaling your car makes you feel really bad. Perhaps we could do with a few less deer.

November 20, 2008

Winter snow arrived one week too early to help area deer hunters. Calhoun County woke up early on Tuesday to find up to five inches of snow blanketing the ground.

County roads were covered in the white, slippery stuff, making it difficult for many to get to work, sometimes turning a 20- minute drive into an hour or more of nail biting, slip sliding to work. Area schools were on a two-hour delay at first and then were closed for the day.

Maybe next week, we will get more snow for deer season, that always makes the deer easier to spot and to track.

 *       *       *       *

Folks who listen to police and emergency scanners were somewhat excited last Thursday when Ritchie County issued an alert for armed robbery suspects who may have been traveling this way on Rt. 16 or West on Rt. 47. Local police responded, but were unable to locate the suspects. They were later arrested in Wood County.

*       *       *       *

Good news for anyone without the cash to pay their property taxes. The sheriff’s office now takes credit cards. They will charge you a 2.95% fee for the privilege.

*       *       *       *

Area residents, who are not yet “close enough” to a telephone substation, may now be able to get high-speed DSL service from Frontier, for a price. It seems that it now has a “line conditioner” that can be installed to help the DSL service reach out twice the distance to help customers that were too far before.

November 13, 2008

Even though there have been some sprinkles and light showers, we are still in the midst of a drought. That may change, as the forecast calls    for rain through Saturday night. That should help get the water table a little closer to normal.

*       *       *       *

It will be 32 years ago on Nov. 18 that Calhoun County sheriff Park Richards was killed in the line of duty. Richards was shot while serving a mental hygiene warrant on a mentally disturbed man who was living under a rock overhang on what used to be called Apple Farm at Rush Run.

In November, 2006, a section of Rt. 16 from Grantsville to the Ritchie county line was named the Park Richards Memorial Highway and dedicated to his memory.

*       *       *       *

An 18-year-old male was removed from a wrecked pickup truck early Tuesday morning after an accident just West of Cabot Station. He was flown to Charleston Area Medical Center by helicopter. It was unknown what time the accident occurred or how long it went unnoticed.

*       *       *       *

Area deer are either getting braver or stupider, just when they should be becoming more paranoid of humans. The deer around my house just stand there and look at you when you walk out the door not even 15 feet away. They don’t even move if you yell at them. Come deer season that could be a very bad habit, and an easy drag home.

*       *       *       *

Although John McCain carried the vote in Calhoun County, most of the folks I have talked to are watching to see what changes the new president will make in foreign policy, the financial crises, and income taxes. I am sure that we all wish him the best of luck.

November 6, 2008

Although I did not see any snow last week, witnesses I consider more or less reliable, reported that flurries were spotted in skies of Calhoun County. That must make the warm temperatures of this week, “Indian Summer.”

Highs in the 70’s on election day, with sunny skies, seemed to make it an irresistible day for people to get out and vote. Over 500 citizens utilized early voting in the county. It looks like we may have had record turnout for this election.

*       *       *       *

Lots of little ghosts and goblins, witches, princesses and super heroes were out terrorizing the residents of Calhoun last weekend by threatening to “trick” if not treated. At least one of the small doorknockers was dressed as a ladybug. A quick check of the spots on the little beast soon proved that it was not one of the dreaded Asian variety. It was just as  well that citizens had a stash    of candy and other goodies on-hand to appease the little ones.

*       *       *       *

Last weekend, we all set our clocks back an hour to return to daylight standard time. It should have given us all an extra hour to sleep each morning. It doesn’t seem to matter, however, I still wake up at the same time every day no matter what the clock says.

*       *       *       *

A home belonging to Rodney and Roberta Frederick of Big Springs was destroyed by fire last Friday. The family has already received enough donations of clothing, but are still in need of other household items, such as furniture, bedding and other necessities. An account has been set-up at Calhoun Banks to help the family. For information, call Greg or Angie Frederick, 354-9403.

October 30, 2008

Forecasters were calling for snow flurries the early part of this week, but so far I have not witnessed the event. We did receive some much-needed rain over the weekend. The oak and hickory trees are now at their peak of color.

*       *       *       *

On Sunday at 2 a.m., daylight saving time will end. It is the time to “fall back.” Set your clocks back an hour before you go to bed so you can sleep-in for an extra hour. Now, the kids will have daylight in the morning while waiting for the bus. The bad thing is that it will be almost dark when you get home from work.

*       *       *       *

Tuesday is election day, so don’t forget to vote. Many thousands of Americans have died so that you may still have the right to vote, be sure you exercise that right or they will have died in vain.

In the U.S., the turnout has been plummeting toward a dismal 50%, although it is expected that this year will have a bigger turnout. Australia has a law that states that you must go to the polls and vote (even if you cast a blank ballot) or face a $20 fine. It seems to be working as the voter turnout in Australia is 95%. In Turkmenistan, the turnout is an astonishing 99%.

*       *       *       *

A semi-truck trailer used to store hay at a construction site at the old McDonald farm near Mt. Zion Community Park caught fire early Monday morning. The hay and trailer were destroyed. Cause of the blaze is unknown and authorities are investigating.

*       *       *       *

Next week will mark the 23rd anniversary of the third highest flood in Grantsville. On Nov. 5, 1985, the Little Kanawha River crested at 42.87 feet, causing major damage to much of the area. The West Fork and Steer Creek also saw major flooding.

*       *       *       *

This weekend is Halloween, so be sure to watch out for little ghosts, goblins, witches and superheroes as they will be too excited to watch out for you.

October 23, 2008

Since we have had our first hard frost, we can now look forward to Indian Summer. Snowflakes will be flying through the air soon.

Last weekend may have been the best time for leaf peeping in Calhoun as the brightly colored maple leaves are now scattered on the ground.

Reports from area bow hunters are good. Many nice bucks (and lots of does) were spotted, and some were harvested. I like bow season. It is a very quiet way to hunt and it brings you closer to nature. Also, no one was ever killed by a bow falling and accidentally going off while crossing a fence or while cleaning it.

*       *       *       *

In 2001, the Northern lights were visible in Calhoun. On the nights of Oct. 21 and 28 and Nov. 5, the aurora borealis was seen. Many people who saw the strange colors in the sky did not recognize them as the Northern lights. The lights were mostly a brightly glowing red, on and just above the northern horizon.  Some (including yours truly) thought they were brush fires.

*       *       *       *

*       *       *       *

The economic crisis that is causing so much trouble on Wall Street seems to be hitting here as well. We are experiencing a sharp rise in the theft of ATVs and anything that isn’t locked up, nailed down, or hidden. Be alert, lock up your valuables and vehicles, and report any suspicious behavior to the police immediately.

*       *       *       *

A fire early last Friday morning destroyed a house in Arnoldsburg. The house was a rental property and had recently been rented. The new tenants were in the process of moving in. No one was at home at the time of the fire.

October 16, 2008

Although I have often heard that frost in the morning and cold nights are necessary for truly colorful fall foliage, this is a most spectacular show of color with no frost and only chilly nights. The maple trees almost make you squint when you see their scarlet leaves. The oak and hickory trees are beginning to change too. Plan a walk with your family in a nearby woods this week to enjoy the changing of the season in sights and scents.

*       *       *       *

Maybe it is a sign of the economy, but this year’s list of delinquent property taxes unpaid in Calhoun County, as listed by the sheriff, is $82,733, an increase of 12.5% over last year’s total of $72,981.

*       *       *       *

I was saddened to hear of the passing of Norville McCune, who lived on Crooked Run at Orma. I met Norv and his brother Bruce in the early ’80s and found them both to be truly amazing men. They lived and worked as our ancestors did, simply, honestly, and hard. They were always busy doing something and they believed in the principle of “re-use” since the depression. Norville died Oct. 7, at the age of 89, while using a weed whacker to clear some brush on his farm. He will be missed by all who knew him.

*       *       *       *

Even though squirrel season opened last Saturday, the little tree rats are still sitting in the middle of the road gnawing on walnuts. Personally, I don’t like walnuts, but the squirrels must think they are worth dying for, or maybe it is easier to get to the meat of the nut after it has been smashed flat by a car. I’m not sure, but I could ask the crow in the tree that is waiting to eat the squirrel after he gets hit by a car.

*       *       *       *

Letters of request for membership on Grantsville town council are being accepted. Letters should be submitted to the mayor by Oct. 29. The new member will take their seat on Monday, Nov. 4. The term will expire at noon on June 30, 2009.

October 9, 2008

Leaves are really beginning to change colors--and fill up gutters, if we ever get any rain. Hummingbirds have quit stopping at the feeders, but the fall migrating birds are eating plenty of sunflower seeds to fuel their journey south.

*       *       *       *

The exceedingly dry weather makes it even more important to obey the laws during this forest fire season. Even if we get a little rain, it will not wet the ground very deep in the woods.

*       *       *       *

Workers for the local West Virginia Division of Highways office came across a  large rattlesnake last week along the Right Fork of Crummies Creek. It is unknown whether  or not they used it to fill a pothole.

*       *       *       *

Squirrel season begins Saturday. There are plenty of them this year and, with the excellent harvest of nuts, they should be fat and tasty. Nothing tastes better in the morning than fried squirrel with hair gravy.

October 2, 2008

Walnut trees are full of nuts this year, and if you happen to park beneath one, it could look like a hailstorm damaged your car. I took a hit to the top of my head the other day, but it just sounded like the nut hit something hollow.

*       *       *       *

A mobile home caught fire on the lower Southside of Grantsville last Wednesday. The owner of the home attempted to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher, but the fire spread to the ceiling. Grantsville Volunteer Fire Dept. got the fire out. Damages were unknown.

*       *       *       *

The Fall Forest Fire season is from Oct. 1 to Dec. 31. Outdoor burning is prohibited between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Please obey the law as it has been unusually dry so far and it won’t take much to get a bad fire going.

*       *       *       *

If you simply cannot wait for the leaves to change, you should plan a trip to the mountains this weekend. The areas around Blackwater canyon and Canaan Valley are almost ready to  peak. If you wait a couple of weeks, you can see the splendor here and save yourself some gas.

September 25, 2008

Fall fell softly on Monday, with weather so pretty you couldn’t even buy it on eBay. Makes me wonder if autumn will go out with a bang.

*       *       *       *

Walking along the ridge tops provides a view of trees just on the green side with a touch of autumn blush. Early morning is the best time. The valleys are filled with fog, the birds are happy and the view is spectacular. The most colorful time of the year is just a few short weeks away.

*       *       *       *

Frontier Communications had a problem on Monday afternoon that made it difficult or impossible for Calhoun residents to communicate with the world.

A fiber optic cable about two miles from Grantsville was damaged. That shut down internet and long distance service to everyone, although some customers with a 354 interchange could make local calls. Service was restored by Tuesday morning.

*       *       *       *

Apparently, the owner of a cabin in the Munday area wanted to see if the OnStar emergency service in his vehicle would work even way out in the country. He now knows it does.

A state trooper, Calhoun EMS and Grantsville Volunteer Fire Dept. responded to the  call. The owner said that he had advised OnStar that he was only conducting a test, but OnStar must not have heard that part.

*       *       *       *

Squirrels are getting fat and the deer are getting brave. It must be getting close to hunting season. That, and the fact that you can now hear guns going off every weekend if you sit outside and listen for while. I seem to remember getting a gun sighted-in with only a few shots, not 15 or 20.

September 18, 2008

Hurricane Ike, after causing destruction in Texas and other parts of the Gulf Coast, barely grazed Calhoun County on Sunday with a stiff wind blowing over the hilltops and very little rain. It continued to cause damage across parts of Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio and Pennsylvania, with significant wind damage to buildings and trees.

*       *       *       *

Some local farmers are putting up their second cutting of the fields, the last hay of the year. Due to storms that occurred right before the first cutting and dry weather through the summer, cattle may in for a rough winter.

*       *       *       *

Speaking of winter, I accidentally stepped on my first wooly worm. It was mostly black, with a little brown toward the tail. That may mean a cold, hard winter with a warm spell towards the end, or it may mean the poor little fuzzy critter was just unlucky.

*       *       *       *

Allegheny Energy has updated the PATH website, www.pathtransmission.com, for the proposed route of the 765-kilovolt power line that could cross Calhoun County. The site has aerial maps that detail the route. Click on the “Detailed Aerial Maps Available” link. The maps can take a long time to download on dial-up connections, but show the new right-of-way and the existing one.

*       *       *       *

Chestnut trees along Pleasant Hill are loaded with large burrs. It looks like there will be many chestnuts to roast over an open fire this holiday season.

September 11, 2008

A little rain blessed the area on Tuesday, with more coming by the weekend. Bucks are starting to lose the velvet from their horns and are making scrapes everywhere. Owls are beginning their fall concert and a large bobcat was crossing a field next to my house the other evening.

*       *       *       *

The old Creston General Store was destroyed by fire on Aug. 30. It was determined that the fire was deliberately set. The store, built in the late 1880s, is prominent in almost any old photograph of Creston. It was the last surviving structure of the once thriving Creston community. The store was owned by Chronicle columnist Alvin Engelke and was being used for storage.

*       *       *       *

A man was injured in a 4-wheeler accident in the back country of Katie’s Run, near Annamoriah, on Sunday afternoon. He was sent to CAMC by helicopter after being carried from the scene. His condition is unknown.

*       *       *       *

Firefighters responded to the scene of a transformer fire near the Annamoriah straight on Tuesday afternoon, but had to wait for the electric company to arrive and shut off the power.

*       *       *       *

Thanks to warm weather this spring, there is a bumper crop of fruit on the trees now. Some trees are unable to hold their bounty and overburdened limbs are beginning to break. There should be excellent apple cider and apple butter this year, as well as preserved peaches and pears. As for me, I believe I will bake an apple pie or two.

*       *       *       *

This Thursday marks the seventh anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9-11. Remember that morning with a moment of silence and a prayer that it never happens again.

September 4, 2008

Hummingbirds continue to fight at the feeders every day. That is what happens when they are migrating south and stop by to fill up their belly at places they remember on the way. I will keep my feeder up until mid-October or until a week goes by without seeing any of the little wonders.

*       *       *       *

A fire caused heavy damage to a mobile home belonging to Marie Honaker near Altizer last Wednesday night. She is the widow of Rufus Honaker, who was a volunteer fireman at Arnoldsburg for many years.

*       *       *       *

An explosion and fire last Thursday night at the Bayer CropScience plant at Institute proved deadly for one worker and seriously injured another. It could have been much worse. The blast was heard as far as Mink Shoals, 16 miles away. Kanawha County officials recommended a “shelter in place” emergency from South Charleston to the Putnam county line.

*       *       *       *

A low-speed chase across four counties occurred over the weekend. The chase began on Rt. 16 when state police in Clay County reported they were in pursuit of a pickup truck that, after they called for assistance, continued on Rt. 33/119 through Calhoun and Roane and ended on Rt. 119 in Kanawha. It is not known what started the chase.

*       *       *       *

A woman was injured in an accident near Big Springs when her car went out of control and slid over an embankment. She received minor injuries.

*       *       *       *

On Saturday night, an accident on Adam-Altizer Road resulted in some lacerations to one man when his pickup truck reportedly rolled over several times with him being ejected.

August 28, 2008

Although the weather has been dry, it has been perfect for those of us with large lawns and small lawnmowers. Grass needs rain to grow and now that we may experience some of the leftover rain from tropical storm Fay, it will be time to mow the lawn again. Only a few more mowings to do, and perhaps one more day of weedeating, and then it will be fall and time to rake the leaves.

*       *       *       *

Jerry and Gayle Burkowski and family search for treasures.

It seemed as if a parade was passing by our house last Saturday. There is usually not much traffic, but suddenly there were six people walking by with GPS units in their hands.

Geocachers from Gilmer County were on the hunt for caches in Calhoun. They were searching for Grumpy’s Bathtub, which is located in our holler. They turned out to be Jerry and Gayle Burkowski, college professors at GSC, ac-companied by their children and a grandchild.

*       *       *       *

Now that school is back in session, it should be somewhat quieter during the workday hours in Grantsville. I will not miss the sounds of skateboards attempting the impossible or the painful grunts of the riders when they fail to do their tricks. Not worrying about skateboarders doing their thing in dangerous locations will also be a relief. Perhaps someday a skateboard park may be built in the county to give these kids a somewhat safer place to learn the tricks and practice the falls.

*       *       *       *

A suspicious fire on Big Root early Sunday morning leveled the residence of Joy Freshour and her three children. They were not home at the time. Everything was destroyed in the blaze and the family needs your help, especially since all school clothing and supplies they had purchased were also lost.

Donations may be dropped off at the home of Norma Freshour at Pleasant Hill, or call 354-6996 or 477-3695 to make arrangements for pick up.

Clothing sizes needed are:

Zachary, age 15: pants, men’s 34 waist/32 length; shirts, men’s large; shoes, men’s 13.

Darren (13): pants, men’s 33 waist/30 length; shirts, men’s large; shoes, men’s 12.

Destiny (3): pants, girls’ 5T; shirts, girls 5-6 small; shoes, children’s 12.

Joy: pants, women’s size 20; shirts, women’s 2X; shoes, women’s 11.

*       *       *       *

A bridge cleaning crew from the Parkersburg district of W.Va. Division of Highways was busy on Monday washing and cleaning bridges on Rt. 5 West and in Grantsville. It is a job they do at least twice a year, once in the spring to remove the accumulation of winter cinders and dirt and in late summer/ early fall to remove the debris of summer.

Bridge cleaners are, left to right, Roger Dragoo, Cody Vanmeter and David Vankirk.

August 21, 2008

A lack of rain has at least allowed local farmers to harvest another cutting of hay, as well as provide beautiful weather for reunions and gatherings of all kinds.

*       *       *       *

An approximately 115-year- old rough-hewn log barn located near Walnut Road proved how strong it still is, when it was struck by a car on Monday morning. The barn was still standing, while the driver fled the scene. Unfortunately, logs like the ones that were destroyed cannot be easily, if ever, replaced.

*       *       *       *

Hummingbirds are beginning to fight each other a little more at the feeders as they try to put on a little weight for their travel south for winter vacation. Some fine looking bucks, with antlers still in velvet, are starting to follow the does around.

*       *       *       *

Summer is quickly passing. If there are still things you wish to do this summer, you had better get it done now. As for me, I think I will go fishing.

August 14, 2008

The weather for the past week has been unusually cool for this time of year, with daytime highs in the upper 70’s and night temperatures in the low 50’s.

Unfortunately, cool nights cause overnight fog that caused poor visibility for viewing the Perseid meteor shower early Tuesday morning from valley locations.

*       *       *       *

The latest issue of National Geographic has informed me that our little friends, the multicolored Asian lady beetle (Harmonia axyridis), are also running rampant in England. They were first introduced to mainland Europe in the 1990’s to control crop pests. It is thought they may have crossed from Europe carried by the wind or by flying.

While Asian lady beetles do eat aphids, they also love to eat native ladybugs, making it difficult for the ladybugs to survive. The Brits would like to stop the spread of the bugs with pheromone-laced traps, but say it would be expensive. No mention was made in the article about how the little buggers get into houses and spend the winter.

*       *       *       *

Hunters of the ginseng plant will have to wait until Sept. 1 to begin the seasonal harvest this year. Remember to harvest mature plants only (three prong or larger) and replant the ginseng seeds in the spot where you harvest the root. The season will end Nov. 30.

August 7, 2008

Dog Days of August are here and they are not as hot as usual. Storms moved through the area in the past week, but did little damage. Blackberries are ready for picking, but be careful of snakes and bears.

*       *       *       *

A man was picking blackberries on Norman Ridge, near Big Bend, last Thursday, when he encountered a black bear with the same idea. He left the berries for the bear.

*       *       *       *

A burned 2003 Chevy Cavalier was discovered last week on Upper Big Run. It was a total loss. Since it appears to be a case of arson, the State fire marshal has been advised and evidence has been sent to the crime lab.

*       *       *       *

While answering a call on Rowell’s Run, State Police Cpl. Doug Starcher saw two four-wheelers near Hur Church. One of the drivers apparently fled the scene and struck a concrete cistern and went over a hill. The drivers of both ATV’s escaped on foot into the woods. The four-wheeler that was wrecked appeared to be stolen.

July 31, 2008

The weather has been typical for late July with pop-up thunderstorms and scattered showers. Gardens continue to produce fresh vegetables and the corn this year is the sweetest it has been in a while.

*       *       *       *

Minimum wage has increased to $6.55 per hour, making those who work out of the county only having to work two days per week to pay for their gasoline.

*       *       *       *

Russell Jones II, 28, of Harrisville, son of Rusty and Vickie Jones of Big Springs, was severely injured July 10 in a gas well explosion. He suffered third degree burns over most of his body and is in the burn unit at Pittsburgh.

Jones drove himself to a grocery store in Pullman after the explosion and was then life flighted to Pittsburgh.

Get-well cards may be sent to West Penn Burn Unit, 4800 Friendship Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15224, Att. Russell E. Jones.

July 24, 2008

It has been Dog Days hot in the area for the last week. The heat moved out on Monday night when thunderstorms came through and cooled things down, and blew over a few trees and damaged gardens as well.

*       *       *       *

A well-known eatery on Main St., Grantsville, is up for sale on e-Bay. As my grandma used to say, “Better get it while it’s hot!”

*       *       *       *

Prices of gasoline continue to bounce around. Unless it comes down below $4 a gallon, I hope someone opens some stores in this county so we don’t spend all of our money just getting someplace where we can buy what we need.

*       *       *       *

Some miscreants made a slight miscalculation last Friday night while they were attempting to outrun the sheriff’s department. They thought they had turned off White Pine onto the North end of Bull  River Road, but they came down my dead-end hollow instead. At least there was a full moon for their get-away on foot.

*       *       *       *

A lady wrecked her bicycle on Monday in town on her way to Minnie Hamilton Health System to visit her husband. Good Samaritans stopped to help her, ensure she was all right, and give her a ride to the facility to prevent any more accidents.

*       *       *       *

Saturday, July 26, is the first day to start practicing the 10-digit dialing procedure. You might want to start storing the numbers now in your phone’s memory. It will become man-datory on Feb. 28.

July 17, 2008

There has been just enough rain to keep the lawns in need of mowing and Chanterelle mush-rooms coming up. Other than that, we had beautiful weather, and are looking forward to even more of the same.

*       *       *       *

An Ohio man was injured last Thursday when he lost control of his motorcycle on Millstone Hill. He was flown to CAMC by helicopter. His condition is unknown.

*       *       *       *

Thieves continue to break into the old high school and wreak havoc. The latest theft was large bundles of copper wire stolen when the locks and chains were cut. Police are looking into the matter and are contacting metal buyers to identify the thieves. The new owners of the former school are discouraged with the vandalism and theft, but still have hopes   to make something of the facility.

*       *       *       *

Gasoline prices went up last week by around 20 cents. Prices at food stores continue to climb and food banks are being hard hit. Perhaps when the gardens in the area begin to bring forth produce, the price of vegetables will go down.

*       *       *       *

Fishing in the Little Kanawha River has been good lately. Plenty of catfish and bass have been caught. Perhaps I will wet a line soon and try my luck. I don’t have to use much gas to get to the river and I paddle the boat myself anyway.

July 10, 2008

The Fourth of July was an all-day rainout this year in Calhoun. Nature didn’t even provide fireworks with the rain. The wet weather has made many gardens grow and surplus vegetables are already being given to thankful folks who live too near the deer.

*       *       *       *

Some local children are eagerly anticipating the return of their father from Iraq. The signs along the road close to Parsons One Stop are counting down the days until they can give him hugs and kisses.

*       *       *       *

Some of the signs that were put up last week for the walking trail along River St. in Grantsville have already been defaced. Perhaps the person who defaced them at least walked the trail while they did it. Makes you wonder how these people with nothing better to do would feel if you spray painted obscenities on something of theirs. Never mind, I’ve seen their T-shirts.

*       *       *       *

It seems there are more bear sightings every week. It might be a good idea to feed your outdoor cats and dogs in the morning and remove their dishes each evening; unless   you want to see a bear at your house.

*       *       *       *

A jury found Howard “Sonny” Lowers not guilty of sexual assault last week. Lowers is a local bluegrass musician and a volunteer at Calhoun Emergency Services. He was arrested last year after being accused of the crime.

*       *       *       *

RPR Industries, Inc., one of the county’s largest employers, has been forced to layoff around 30 workers. A Dayton, Ohio, company that purchased fire-fighting suits from RPR was recently sold and RPR will no longer be supplying them.

July 3, 2008

It seems we get storms every other day. Farmers are not getting enough good weather to put up their hay and the storms keep beating it down anyway. Hail has become so common-place, I don’t bother to look out the window when I hear it pounding on my tin roof.

*       *       *       *

The Senior Citizens Center in Grantsville has a new roof in the front to help keep users of the facility dry while departing the buses. It looks good too.

*       *       *       *

A scheduled food distribution at Louisa Chapel United Methodist Church was canceled last Saturday due to a shortage of food to distribute. With people paying so much more for everything they buy, they have very little left to donate to help those who have no money to buy anything. 

*       *       *       *

There were two break-ins on the southern end of the county in the last week. Chloe Auto and Hardware was entered after thieves broke two windows and stole cigarettes and over-the- counter medicines. Nelly’s Store in Minnora was broken into on Sunday morning, but it appears the thieves were frightened away before they were able to steal anything.

Times are hard and jobs are scarce but there are many jobs to be had in prison while doing hard time.

*       *       *       *

A black bear seems to be running around within a few miles of Grantsville. It was photographed in the Riffle Ridge area. Hopefully, it is heading over to Bear Fork for the summer.

June 26, 2008

A thunderstorm moved through the center of the county last Friday evening, blasting trees with lightning and dropping so much hail that some reported that it looked like winter. There was so much hail on Rt. 5 East of Grantsville that an eerie fog developed.

*       *       *       *

Two gentlemen from the northern part of the state rode their motorcycles to Grantsville last Friday as part of a personal project to visit and photograph all 55 county courthouses. They were hoping to visit 12 counties, but the weather may not have cooperated. Hopefully, they didn’t catch hail.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun County did not have enough reported damage from the storms that moved through on Wednesday, June 4, to qualify for disaster assistance. Only a few dozen people reported any damage.

*       *       *       *

Wood County sheriff’s deputy Sgt D.C. Massey, recovered two ATVs over the weekend that had been reported stolen in Calhoun County on May 19 and 21. After a chase on Rt. 2 in Wood County, the drivers of the 4-wheelers escaped on foot.  The incident is still under investigation.

*       *       *       *

Little Kanawha River is looking good for fishing. The water is low and clear. Now is the time to night fish for bass and catfish. Better take a child fishing before the next series of storms comes through and makes it high and muddy enough to plant corn.

*       *       *       *

Lulu Myers is undergoing treatment for cancer. Her family would like to express their gratitude for the calls, donations, cards and prayers during this stressful time. Her address is HC 65, Box 26, Mt. Zion, WV 26151.

*       *       *       *

According to a legal notice in this week’s Chronicle, Daniel W. Finch, Jr., has tendered an application to the FCC “for city of license change for radio station construction permit . . . from Arnoldsburg, W.Va., to Fayetteville, W.Va.”

June 19, 2008

Hot weather prevailed over the weekend, but cooler temperatures are forecast. It’s about time. Some area residents took advantage of the pleasant weather and managed to get some hay cut and baled.

*       *       *       *

Gov. Joe Manchin has requested that President George Bush declare 11 counties in West Virginia eligible for federal disaster recovery assistance. Calhoun residents with damage from the storms should call Calhoun Control, 354-9272, with estimates of the damage received as soon as possible so that a correct estimate can be given to the governor’s office.

*       *       *       *

Friday is West Virginia Day, so take some time this weekend to get out and enjoy your state. Take the kids fishing, picnicking, hiking or biking.

*       *       *       *

A tractor-trailer was stuck on Simon St. beside the Senior Citizens Center on Tuesday, causing some minor traffic problems.

*       *       *       *

D and D Arcade opened for business last Saturday at the former Y-Mart building in Arnoldsburg. It offers pool tables, video games and a jukebox. At last, the younger generation will have another place to hang out.

June 12, 2008

Last week was hotter than a firecracker, with severe thunderstorms that caused flooding and rescheduling of the Wood Festival’s Demolition Derby. Wayne Underwood Field was underwater by Thursday afternoon. The derby was postponed until September.

*       *       *       *

The flooding caused destruction of many bottomland crops, with gardens washed away, fields of hay completely ruined, roads and culverts washed out, and trees falling due to high wind and water-soaked ground.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun residents with damage from the storms should call Calhoun Control, 354-9272, with estimates of the damage received as soon as possible so that a correct estimate can be given to the governor’s office.

*       *       *       *

The music on Saturday night at the Wood Festival started with a new voice from Calhoun, Jeremy “Fat Boy” Houchin with Will Freed of Ohio. Houchin is a singer/songwriter with the talent to take him wherever he wishes to go. The next act was Dixie Moon, featuring Mike and Mary Alice Wilson, Butch Burch, Rick Pitts, Rick Magly and J.B. Butcher. Their performance included hits from Fleetwood Mac and other songs of the seventies. The final act was Dangerfield, featuring Roger Bush, Harry Beall, Rick Poling and Lyle Kerby performing songs made popular by the Beatles.

*       *       *       *

Saturday evening’s concerts were followed by a great fireworks display (visit www.calhounchronicle.com for more photos of the Wood Festival).

*       *       *       *

Owners of the former Calhoun High School, George and Sherry Kusner, were in town to see the festival. They took my daughter Amy and I on a tour of the school. They have many good plans for the facility and have been having problems with vandalism. They spoke of putting video surveillance cameras in strategic areas to help the police with prosecuting people responsible for tearing the place up.

June 5, 2008

In spite of another tornado watch and lots of rain on Saturday, May went out without too much trouble. June is a time for putting up hay and enjoying the Wood Festival. If there is any time left, go fishing.

*       *       *       *

The 33rd House of Delegates race appears to be over. It is alleged that the missing 41 ballots in Clay County were a machine error caused by an optical scanner not “reading” the ballots. David Walker maintained his lead.

*       *       *       *

The cost of gasoline is still going up. The cost of living is on the rise and does not seem to be anywhere close to leveling out. It’s not too late to put in a garden so that you may feed your family fresh, home-grown vegetables, at least in the summer and perhaps can the excess to live through the winter.

 *       *       *       *

Calhoun has a bakery in Arnoldsburg. The pepperoni rolls are simply the best I’ve ever had. I can’t wait to sample the rest of the goods.

May 29, 2008

The valleys and hillsides of Calhoun are rich with the smell of roses . . . multi flora roses. This is the only time of year the pesky plants have any use to humans.

*       *       *       *

Memorial Day weekend was beautiful. Many out-of-state plates were seen as family members came back to Calhoun to place flowers on the graves of their ancestors.

*       *       *       *

The 33rd House of Delegate District race continues to be interesting. Calhoun candidate Ron Blankenship has asked for a recount in Gilmer and Clay counties, but it seems that there is a problem locating 41 ballots in Clay County precinct 37, which is the home precinct of David Walker, the leader of the contest so far. Since the ballots cannot be located and verified, Clay County has been unable to certify their primary results.

 *       *       *       *

There seems to be a mini crime wave in the area. Reports of thefts and burglaries are increasing. Police departments are on the lookout and residents are advised to lock-up items.

May 22, 2008

The showers we didn’t get in April are falling now. Gardens are too wet to work in and lawns are getting high.

*       *       *       *

Another fire has struck Calhoun County. Last Saturday evening, the home of Bettie Kisner on Lower Pine Creek was consumed in a fire that generated temperatures high enough to melt pieces off a nearby parked car and ignite a cellar house. Kisner was uninjured, but lost everything.

*       *       *       *

The State Fire Marshal was in Grantsville last week to investigate the fire that occurred on Johnson St.

 *       *       *       *

Arnoldsburg resident Ronald Lane attended the 2008 CON-EXPO in Las Vegas, Nev., and won a New Holland Construction tool chest valued at $2,400. It’s not often you come home with anything from Vegas.

*       *       *       *

Two young boys wandered away from their Sand Ridge home on Sunday. Sheriff Carl Ballengee and his dog Khan, other officers, and Arnoldsburg Volunteer Fire Dept. came to the scene to help locate the missing boys. Just as volunteers started into the woods, family members showed up with the boys after finding them deep into Bear Fork along a dirt road. The boys were okay, just tired and hungry.

*       *       *       *

The race for the 33rd House of Delegate District continues to be close. After last week’s can-vassing of provisional ballots in Calhoun and Gilmer counties, Ron Blankenship picked up 15 votes to tie David Walker of Clay County. When the canvass results came in from Clay, Walker took the lead again by 12 votes, 1,200 to 1,188. At presstime, there was no word from Blankenship whether he would ask for a recount.

May 15, 2008

A tornado and flood watch was issued for Calhoun on Mother’s Day, but, fortunately, all we received was much needed rain.

*       *       *       *

The rain was responsible for several accidents over the weekend. No serious injuries were reported. Heavy rain also caused some trees to uproot around the area.

*       *       *       *

Normantown native Rick Frame, who is running for the House of Delegates, performed some volunteer bulldozer work at Calhoun County Park. He helped prepare land for proposed campsites.

 *       *       *       *

Grantsville experienced another fire last weekend. The home of Cozetta Smith on Johnson Street was engulfed in flames when firefighters responded to the call around 11:45 on Saturday night. It was occupied by Christopher Todd Smith, who was not home at the time. He is Cozetta’s grandson. The cause of the blaze has yet to be determined.

*       *       *       *

Work on the new steps in front of the courthouse was delayed for a few days because of the weather, but the last of the concrete was poured on Tuesday. The new steps will be a welcome sight for the Wood Festival in June.

May 8, 2008

A bumper crop of morels has given area residents a perfect reason to walk in the woods. Many people report finding several hundred of the gourmet mushrooms in a single day.

*       *       *       *

A reminder for voters in next Tuesday’s Primary Election. Voters who are registered as Independent must remember to ask for a ballot if they want to vote one of the two major political parties’ ballots. Poll workers are not allowed by law to remind independent voters that they have that option.

*       *       *       *

The former Minnora School building was sold to Bruce Allen Pipeline Co. Calhoun County Committee on Aging opened three sealed bids. The winning bid was $50,100.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville police received a call last weekend that a man was walking around the trail at Wayne Underwood Field partially naked. Chief Charles Stephens responded to the call.

*       *       *       *

Next Tuesday is your chance to make a difference in Calhoun County, West Virginia, and the nation. Get up, get out and go vote. It’s not just a right, it’s a responsibility.

*       *       *       *

Now that turkey season is in, it seems that I see about 20 of them every morning on the way to work. Perhaps the best way to avoid being shot is to stand along the road.

May 1, 2008

Whippoorwills have returned to the hills of Calhoun and begun their nightly serenades. Azalea, jack in the pulpit, may-apple, trillium, and fruit trees of all kinds are in bloom. Just ask anyone with allergies.

*       *       *       *

Voters who are registered as Independent must remember to ask for a ballot for one of the two major political parties. Otherwise, you will only be able to vote for non-partisan offices. Poll workers are required, by law, not to remind independent voters they have that option.

*       *       *       *

Perhaps it is a sign of the economic times that the pigeon population in Grantsville has dropped drastically. The old owl on the courthouse is starting to get lonely. There are over one million recipes on Google for the few pigeons that are still flying around town. 

*       *       *       *

A man was arrested while crawling across Main Street in Grantsville last week. He is said to have been following instructions from God to teach him humility and he planned to finish his laps of crawling across the street as soon as he was released from jail.

*       *       *       *

It seems that some of the political signs and handouts in the present campaign were lacking “Paid for by the candidate” on them. Makes you wonder who they thought was paying for them.

*       *       *       *

It’s turkey season, so be careful when walking in the woods. Don’t practice your turkey calling while strolling down a path, just whistle.

April 24, 2008

The trees that were donated and planted in Grantsville last fall made it through the winter and are blooming. Daffodils that were planted by our ancestors continue to bloom each spring along the roadways and hillsides where they brightened the yards of homes that no longer stand. Everyone with flower gardens should be commended on the beauty they bring to the area.

*       *       *       *

Two brush fires struck Calhoun last week and forced firefighters to use leaf blowers and lightweight fire hoses to get the fires under control. A cigarette that was not properly extinguished may have been the cause of one of the fires.

*       *       *       *

Cost of gasoline is still climbing. Perhaps the oil companies are doing their part to help get America in shape. If you can’t afford to drive anywhere, you will have to walk or ride a bicycle.

*       *       *       *

Six mailboxes on Coon Fork Road were smashed last Friday night. While the bashers may think it’s just a prank, it is actually a crime. When caught, the vandals can be charged with destruction of property for each mailbox destroyed and could face six months in jail and a fine. The affected residents hope that this is an isolated incident that will not be repeated.

*       *       *       *

I reported here last week that a large chunk of concrete fell off a truck after straps broke that were holding it in place. I was informed on Monday, by a woman whose parked car was totaled in the incident, that the slab was not being held by straps or chains. The sheriff’s deputy who investigated the accident was unavailable to confirm the report.

*       *       *       *

Potholes in the parking lot at Grantsville Foodland were being filled on Tuesday.

*       *       *       *

Unemployment figures for March, released on Tuesday, showed that Calhoun County had an unemployment rate of 9.7 percent (down from 11.1 in February). Roane’s figure was 8.6 percent (down from 9.9) and Ritchie was 8.1 percent (down from 8.7). Calhoun had a civilian labor force of 2,820 (the 2000 census listed Calhoun with 7,582 residents) and the employment figure was 2,550, leaving 270 residents out of work.

April 17, 2008

Owls have begun their springtime hooting fest. Whippoorwills will be singing next. Hummingbird feeders should be cleaned and filled. The hillsides and roadsides are beautiful this time of year. I would normally suggest you pack up the family and go for a drive, but with the price of gasoline, it might be best to just take them for a walk.

*       *       *       *

A large chunk of concrete came off a truck on Tuesday in the Cabot Station area after some straps holding it in place broke, allowing the load to shift in a sharp turn. No one was injured, but two parked vehicles suffered damage.

*       *       *       *

After spending some time on the phone with authorities in Charleston, most of whom didn’t know that the Timber Rattlesnake was the official state reptile, I was able to find out the snake does not have protected status. If one is in your yard, you may deal with it however you wish.

*       *       *       *

I also found that we now have an official state fossil, the Ground Sloth. If you find one of them in your yard, call a museum.

*       *       *       *

W.Va. State Police investigated an accidental shooting last Friday evening in the Big Springs area.

Cpl. J.B. Hunt was dispatched to Minnie Hamilton Health System to investigate a gunshot wound received by Roy Allen Parsons, 53, in his upper right leg. Parsons had returned to his home on Big Fork Road after mushroom hunting when he dropped a .22 caliber pistol on the floor. The pistol fired and struck Parsons in the leg.

April 10, 2008

Morel mushrooms are up and some are big enough to harvest. The next few weeks will see many residents looking for the little tasty morsels. Redbud and fruit trees are blooming and dogwoods will lighten the hillsides by next week. Wildflowers are coming up and some purple phlox is in bloom already.

Carpenter bees (the ones that look like bumblebees) are starting to bother people who like to spend time on their decks. I have a remedy for them that also helps me get ready for tennis. I walk around my deck with a tennis racket held by my side and give the big bees a good swat when they try to fly in my face.

*       *       *       *

A family in the Henry’s Fork area had quite a scare last Wednesday when two children, ages three and four, went for an unauthorized stroll in the woods near their house. Arnoldsburg VFD and other authorities were called to help in the search, but the family found the wanderers before a full-scale search began.

*       *       *       *

West Virginia now has a state reptile, the Timber Rattlesnake. The idea came from students at Romney Middle School. If they had asked residents of Calhoun to vote, we may have went for Box Turtle or even Bullfrog. Now that rattlesnakes are the state reptile, can you still kill one in your yard?

*       *       *       *

A collision between a car and a pickup truck at Five Forks on Sunday night sent two people from the car to Minnie Hamilton Health System. One was treated and released and the other was sent by helicopter to CAMC, Charleston, with a head wound. The driver of the truck was not injured.

April 3, 2008

Crocus and snowdrop flowers are just about done for this year. Forsythia, daffodils, tulips and early spring wildflowers are blooming. Weeping willows are showing off their beautiful spring green tresses. Dogwood and redbud trees are almost ready to burst. Ramps are now up about three inches. Morel mushrooms will be peeking through last fall’s leaves anytime now.

*       *       *       *

The old Calhoun County High School was sold again. A Virginia couple are said to be the new owners. We hope to contact them soon to discuss the old structure’s future.

*       *       *       *

The Mud Fork area was subjected to three brush fires on three consecutive days last week. The fires were all in the same general area, leading officials to believe they may have been set. According to some local “experts,” in years gone by, brush fires were set in late winter to clear the ground for ramps and morels in the spring.

*       *       *       *

The winds of political change have been blowing along some of the roadways in the county.  It seems the wind chooses which candidates it likes, and blows over the other signs. Some of them completely over the hill.

March 27, 2008

The Calhoun County area received rain last week, but no flooding was reported. Easter weekend was host to beautiful spring weather and children were out early Sunday morning searching for colored eggs. The beginning of this week had large snowflakes swirling in the air, although the temperature was above 40 degrees.

*       *       *       *

The highway department has been busy putting hot patch in the potholes, ditching and working along the major roadways, and fixing the winter ruts on some back roads.

*       *       *       *

A fire alarm went off at Calhoun Banks early last Saturday morning. Grantsville Volunteer Fire Dept. responded immediately, but it was a false alarm.

*       *       *       *

It seems like the public fishing access along the river above Grantsville is no longer being maintained by the state. We will check into it and have an article on that and on fishing in general in an upcoming issue.

March 20, 2008

Spring peepers are singing the joys of warmer weather and people are calling the Chronicle office to see if any ramp dinners are scheduled. I checked my ramp patch last weekend and they have yet to appear. Lilac bushes have begun to sprout leaves and dogwood buds are starting to show signs of being ready to burst into bloom.

*       *       *       *

Goldenseal magazine is featuring Bear Fork Trading Post in its spring edition. The six-page article covers the history of the Bear Fork area, and events, artists, opportunities and music of the bluegrass and traditional music hall.

 *       *       *       *

Judge Thomas Evans postponed sentencing until April for accused murderer Ronnie Rush last Friday in Jackson County to allow defense attorneys Teresa Monk and Rocky Holmes time to prepare a motion for a second re-trial. The attorneys claim  that the jury in last fall’s re-trial was tainted by a state trooper who had a conversation with some of the jurors during a lunch break while the trial was being held.

 *       *       *       *

A three-car collision occurred Wednesday afternoon last week on Rt. 16 South of Grantsville. Some of those involved were Calhoun High School students on their way home from school. No injuries were reported.

 *       *       *       *

Easter is the first Sunday after the first full moon following the Spring Equinox. It is based on the lunar calendar that Hebrew people used to identify Passover. The earliest that Easter can be is Mar. 22.

The last time Easter was on Mar. 23 was in 1913. The next time will be 2228. The next time Easter will occur on Mar. 22 will be 2285. The last time was 1818.

March 13, 2008

State Police are investigating what appears to be a drive-by shooting in Cabot Station last Tuesday night. Perry Richards, who lives near Cabot Recycling, said the shots were fired around 9:30 p.m. at his home and at a car parked outside the residence. Some windows were reportedly broken

*       *       *       *

Although Calhoun was spared blizzard conditions that struck areas of Ohio on Saturday, it still received four to five inches of snow. Wrecks were commonplace as the highway department worked to keep main roads open.

On Tuesday night last week, high winds caused trees that were standing in rain-soaked ground to uproot. The highway department and others with chainsaws were appreciated for the work done to remove trees and limbs from roads.

 *       *       *       *

Spring flowers continue to flourish, although they were hard to see with all the snow covering them last Saturday. Birds were also hitting the feeders hard and emptying them quickly. We are only a few weeks away from spring Morel mushroom and ramp harvesting.

March 6, 2008

Warm temperatures have given area residents an early taste of spring. A beautiful weekend was topped by a high of 72 degrees on Monday. The week will end with colder temperatures and a chance of snow.

*       *       *       *

There is now a U-Haul dealership at Parsons One Stop on Rt. 16 North of Grantsville.

 *       *       *       *

Robins have been spotted strutting around area yards, crocus and daffodils are about to bloom, and spring is less than two weeks away. When we hear the spring peepers, we will have made it through another winter.

*       *       *       *

Area residents are reminded that the Spring Forest Fire Season began Mar. 1. Until May 31, outdoor burning is prohibited between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. and should never be attempted when there is any wind. A brush fire occurred Monday in the Millstone area, with about three acres burning.

*       *       *       *

West Virginia Dept. of Highways has been out on county roads filling in some of the potholes that winter has created.

February 28, 2008

Winter refuses to loosen its grip on the area. It seems we can count on snow at least every Tuesday night. Since we put the Chronicle out on Wednesday morning, it makes “paper day” an adventure each week.

*       *       *       *

Snowdrops are blooming and Easter lilies and tulips are breaking through the snow in this area.

 *       *       *       *

Christopher Shane Dellinger, former volunteer Grantsville police officer, was found guilty of four counts of falsifying accounts to obtain money by false pretenses following a two-day trial in Braxton County. The convictions carry a penalty of one to 10 years on each count. Sentencing will be held May 20.

Dellinger had been under investigation in Calhoun County for allegedly taking money for a concealed weapons class he gave without proper credentials.

*       *       *       *

Willard Jones, the “Mayor of Five Forks,” celebrated his 90th birthday on Feb. 25. He has been a well-known musician for over 50 years and can always be found playing somewhere in Grantsville during the Wood Festival.

*       *       *       *

A landslide along the Little Kanawha River behind Wayne Underwood Field is causing concern for users of the facility.  An area of the bank has slid into the river, along with a few trees, that is partially blocking the stream. The county commission will discuss the problem and seek solutions in its next meeting.

February 21, 2008

Flu and stomach ailments have afflicted area residents. According to the Center for Disease Control’s weekly influenza summary update map, West Virginia is in the “wide-spread” category.

The best way to prevent seasonal flu is to be vaccinated each year, but good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands can help prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. Flu antiviral drugs can also be used to treat and prevent the flu.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick.

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Practice other good health habits: get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

*       *       *       *

A subscriber sent a thank you note for a recent “Publisher’s Desk” column. It seems she had received a mouse pad as a gift and was uncertain of its use.

 Was it meant to go under a mousetrap to prevent a mess? Perhaps, since it was padded, it was meant to silence the awful “snap” noise when the trap was sprung?

While she was trying to understand the use for the pad, she read a column by publisher Helen Morris that dealt with computers, and she realized the mouse pad was meant to go with the computer and under the “clicking thing” that seemed to control it.

 *       *       *       *

A Calhoun resident is facing charges, including attempted murder, after a police chase that started last Friday afternoon in Spencer. Michael Lee Grogg, 23, of Millstone, was arrested after leading police on a chase that included three collisions, two with police cruisers.

 Grogg was charged with attempted murder and with assault on a police officer, obstructing a police officer, DUI, second offense, driving on a license revoked for DUI, reckless driving, and other traffic offenses.

After his arrest, Grogg was arraigned before a Roane magistrate, who set bond at $311,825. Grogg was lodged in Central Regional Jail pending a preliminary hearing on Friday.

*       *       *       *

Five years ago, Calhoun was the scene of a disaster after rain fell across the area with temperatures at 28 degrees, leaving as much as three-quarters of an inch of ice on trees and power lines. Many of the downed  trees can still be seen.

February 14, 2008

Prediction of the groundhog still rules. Windy weather over the weekend forced area residents to carry chain saws in their vehicles to cut trees and limbs that fell onto roads. It also made for humorous moments when grown men were sent chasing their hats over the hill. Snow on Monday night caused school cancellations in Calhoun, Roane and Gilmer counties.

*       *       *       *

A total lunar eclipse will occur on Wednesday, Feb. 20. The moon will begin to enter the Earth’s shadow around 7:30 p.m. and will achieve totality just after 10 p.m. It is always something worth seeing.

 *       *       *       *

Sgt. T.D. Corbitt of the Elizabeth State Police detachment is investigating the death of a Creston man, who died Feb. 6 from a stab wound.

 When Corbitt arrived at a trailer park near Elizabeth to investigate a fight in progress, he discovered that Brent Wilson Butler, 33, had sustained a puncture to his upper leg. Butler died from his injury around 9:30 a.m. at Camden-Clark Hospital.

*       *       *       *

A brief look at a few local flower gardens has revealed the beginnings of new growth pushing through the mulch. We should see crocus and snowdrop flowers in a few weeks.

February 7, 2008

Both French Creek Freddie and Punxsutawney Phil saw their shadows last Saturday, so we may still see six more weeks of winter. The beginning of this week felt more like spring with temperatures in the upper 60’s and thunderstorms. It should end with a chance for snow.

*       *       *       *

West Virginia Records Management and Preservation Board, a part of the Division of Culture and History, has awarded $26,000 for filing cabinets for record preservation to the county commission, which will provide matching funds of 10 percent. The plan is to install a manually operated movable track shelving system, which will help preserve court records and make them more readily available to the public.

 *       *       *       *

Joan Satterfield, Calhoun Dept. of Highways administrator, has returned to Cleveland Clinic to battle Acute Myeloid Leukemia. She will undergo an antibody treatment called Mylotarg to combat the disease.

Cards may be sent to one of three locations:  Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Joan Satterfield, Rm. 30, 9500 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44195; Hope Lodge, Joan Satterfield, Rm. 204, 11432 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106; or Joan Satterfield, P.O. Box 757, Grantsville, WV 26147.

*       *       *       *

A brief look at a few local flower gardens has revealed the beginnings of new growth pushing through the mulch. We should see crocus and snowdrop flowers in a few weeks.

January 31, 2008

Cold weather, snow, ice, rain and high winds have been the recipe for recent weather.  Perhaps the groundhog will promise us better weather for the upcoming weeks when he makes his annual appearance on Saturday.

*       *       *       *

John Eckels of Ohio was arrested in Calhoun County on Saturday night by Cpl. J.B. Hunt of the W.Va. State Police for violating his parole for armed robbery. 

*       *       *       *

With plenty of candidates filing for the primary election, it appears we will have some choices to make. Make sure you are registered by Apr. 22 to vote in the May 13 primary, so that your voice will be heard. If you don’t vote, don’t complain about the choices made by those who do.

*       *       *       *

Former Chronicle reporter Lisa Minney will appear on WCHS, channel 8, and on WVAH, channel 11. “Traveling West Virginia” will feature Two Lane Livin’ on Jan. 31 at 6 a.m. and Feb. 1 at 6:15 a.m. and noon on WCHS, and on Jan. 31 at 10 p.m. and Feb. 3 at 10 a.m. on WVAH.

January 24, 2008

Temperatures in the deep hollows of Calhoun County reached two degrees on Sunday morning and four degrees early Monday. It was so cold that the icicles had icicles. Spring is only eight weeks away.

*       *       *       *

Sheriff Carl Ballengee withdrew his name after filing for re-election to the office.

*       *       *       *

Barbara Heery and Lorraine Landicini of Raccoon Run, near Stumptown, have asked the county commission for a grant to build a footbridge across Steer Creek so their children can attend school when the water is over the present bridge. They were informed by commissioner Rick Sampson, who had received a letter from Paul Mattox, Jr., W.Va. Secretary of Transportation, that a footbridge would cost about $300,000. There used to be many swinging bridges across Steer Creek that were about 300-feet long. That means it must cost about $1,000 per foot.

*       *       *       *

The Grantsville area will soon have another choice for pizza. The Pizza Barn will be operated by Susan Newell and Crystal Bell and will be located in the former Pro Hardware building on Rt. 5 East. Opening is scheduled in February. They plan to have a special play area for the younger crowd with pool tables, big screen TV, pinball machines and Wii video games. Delivery service to the Grantsville area will be offered.

*       *       *       *

Mike and Lisa Carpenter lost everything they owned, including 10 Dachshund puppies, when their home burned to the ground last Saturday in Spencer. They have returned to the Russett area to start over. If you have household items, or wish to help in any other way, call 354-7414 or 354-7073.

January 17, 2008

Winter is fully upon us with a two-hour school delay on Tuesday morning and icy secondary roads throughout the county.

*       *       *       *

Fire destroyed a home in a remote area of the West Fork early on Monday morning. Firefighters from Arnoldsburg and Upper West Fork volunteer fire departments responded, but were too late to save the dwelling of Jackie McCumbers. McCumbers, who lives alone, was visiting his sister at the time.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun County resident and champion fiddler Lester McCumbers performed at Bear Fork Trading Post last Saturday evening. Bluegrass music will definitely keep your toes tapping and get your blood stirring.

January 10, 2008

The winter weather last week forced area schools to close on Wednesday and caused a one-day delay in circuit court cases. The temperature dipped to two degrees on Friday morning. This week, the streets of Grantsville looked a bit strange for early January with people riding motorcycles or walking around wearing shorts, T-shirts and sandals, as temperatures were in the low 70’s.

*       *       *       *

John Manis Richards of Grantsville was arrested in Glenville on Saturday after being sought by Gilmer County law enforcement for over six months. Richards spent the rest of the weekend in Central Regional Jail. He was released on Monday on a $16,500 bond.

*       *       *       *

Michael Franek of Mt. Zion spent part of Christmas Day swimming while visiting his son and family in Puerto Rico.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun prosecutor Matt Minney submitted his resignation to the county commission last Friday. He declined to be interviewed by the Chronicle to explain his reason for leaving office. Applications for interim prosecutor are available from county clerk Richard Kirby.

January 3, 2008

Old St. Nick was able to make his appointed rounds on Christmas Eve despite the lack of snow. Many happy faces have been observed in the area, along with larger than usual piles for trash pick-up, indicating that everyone had lots of presents to open on Christmas day.

*       *       *       *

A call was made to Calhoun 911 concerning an accident with injury at Grantsville Foodland parking lot last week. When the fire department, police and ambulance crews arrived on scene, it was discovered that it was only a shopping cart that had went over the embankment and rolled down to Philips run. There were no injuries.

*       *       *       *

Two vacant mobile homes were destroyed by fire over the weekend. They were owned by Gordon Brooks. Trooper Jeff Hunt is investigating.

*       *       *       *

December 27, 2007

There was plenty of wind and rain in the area over the last week, but for those who wished for a white Christmas, no snow.

For those who do not like snow--good news, none is in  the immediate forecast, although there will be more rain.

*       *       *       *

A Calhoun County man was arrested after firing shots into a house on Little White Oak road on Friday after an apparent domestic dispute.

*       *       *       *

Happy new year to former county residents who are invited to come home and visit in 2008.

*       *       *       *

December 13, 2007

Snowy weather, with an accumulation of over three inches, closed schools in Calhoun and surrounding counties on Wednesday last week and caused a two-hour delay on Thursday. Accidents were reported from all over the county, but there were no serious injuries. The snow was followed by heavy rain and dense fog. On Tuesday, the temperature was a balmy 68 degrees in Grantsville, with snow in the forecast again for the weekend.

*       *       *       *

The sentencing of Ronnie Rush, which was scheduled last week, has been postponed until Jan. 25. Teresa Monk, Rush’s attorney, is asking the court to set aside a guilty verdict returned in Jackson County due to possible jury contamination.

*       *       *       *

Electric power was disrupted and Rt. 33/119 was closed for a short time near the Millstone intersection on Sunday night when a mudslide caused a power pole to fall across the highway.

*       *       *       *

December 6, 2007

There was snow on the ground on Tuesday morning and more snow predicted for Wednesday. It would have been nice to have had this weather during deer season, but a little snow in the air and on the ground (not the roads) does make it seem a little more like Christmastime.

*       *       *       *

Jim Bell, one of the most active volunteers at Heritage Village, was injured in a fall from a ladder while working to put a roof on the Stemple cabin on Saturday. He suffered a blow to the head and a cut to the forehead. He was taken to Roane General Hospital and treated and released.

*       *       *       *

Santa Claus came to town last Friday night riding on a fire truck at the end of the Country Christmas parade. He was surrounded by a host of anxious children who escorted him inside the courthouse where he sat down and visited with all the good little boys and girls. Check out the Chronicle’s webpage for more pictures of the parade and Santa’s visit.

*       *       *       *

Andy Molessa of Wood County, former Calhoun resident, is on the mend after following from a tree stand. He injured some vertebrae in his neck, but family members said he is not paralyzed and will soon begin therapy.

*       *       *       *

Fire swept through the home of the Sigman family, located off Rt. 16, along the West Fork last Friday afternoon. Monica Sigman and two of her children were asleep in a bedroom when her husband Jerry woke her up to a smoke-filled home. They escaped with their lives and the clothes on their backs.

They are in need of everything. There are four children: a one-year-old girl, twin three-year-old boys, and a four-year-old boy. If you can help the Sigman family, call Thelma Carte, 655-9995.

November 29, 2007

Christmas shopping is underway. With the rising cost of fuel, it makes sense to shop locally and support local businesses and crafts people, while avoiding the rush and crush of the city.

*       *       *       *

Hunting enthusiasts should enjoy the weather this week, as it will be more like November and less like September. There is even a chance of snow in the forecast.

*       *       *       *

Remember to send packages to area military personnel serving overseas by Dec. 10, the last day a first class package can be mailed with any chance of arriving before Christmas.

*       *       *       *

Hometown Country Christmas is underway at Calhoun Courthouse. The annual Christmas parade is on Friday at 6 p.m. Santa will be coming to town, so be sure to bring your little ones to see the lights and tell Santa how good they have been all year.

*       *       *       *

Andy Molessa, former Calhoun resident, now living in Wood County, was severely injured on Monday when he fell from a tree stand while hunting in Ohio. Family members said he suffered various injuries, including a broken neck and shoulder. He was transported to a hospital in Columbus where he was to undergo surgery on Tuesday.

*       *       *       *

A fire early last Wednesday morning destroyed the home of Ann and Albert Wilson, Jr., of Annamoriah. A cat may have started the fire by knocking over a lit oil lamp. Albert Wilson was in a Charleston hospital at the time of the fire. The Wilsons lost everything in the fire. Contact information for those who want to help will be listed as soon as it is available.

November 22, 2007

The annual Thanksgiving tradition of deer season has begun. At a local check-in station, a clerk was overheard referring to this as “Beer Season.” All area hunters are reminded that carrying a gun is carrying responsibility. Be absolutely sure of what you aim at and also that the consumption of alcoholic beverages should be at the card table in the evening while you tell the tale of the one that away.

*       *       *       *

The weather forecast for this week looks good for travelers, but a bit too warm for hanging a big buck from a tree in the yard.

*       *       *       *

A hunter from Ohio was reported to have suffered a fatal heart attack on Monday morning on Sears Run, near Minnora.

Apparently, a hunter in Wirt County was trying to light a burner on Monday morning on a propane stove in order to make some coffee, but did not realize that there was a leak. The resulting explosion knocked the roof off the cabin and sent three men to the hospital.

*       *       *       *

Remember to send your packages to area military personnel serving overseas as soon as possible. Dec. 10 is the last day a first class package can be mailed with any chance of arriving before Christmas. It is always advisable to mail early rather than have a package arrive late.

*       *       *       *

Four accidents were reported last Thursday, mostly due to heavy rain, sleet, snow flurries, and fallen leaves on the roadway from the night before. Five vehicles were damaged, but none of the occupants needed to be taken to the hospital.

November 22, 2007

A local couple celebrating their second anniversary with a trip to the mountains was a little concerned about signs they observed along the highway. The signs read, “Make the Devils Repent!” and “Stick a Fork in the Devils!” They saw the signs for over a mile before they realized they were driving into . . . Moorefield, Calhoun’s playoff opponent last week.

*       *       *       *

A jury in the Jackson County re-trial of Ronnie Rush for the killing of Calhoun residents Ward Groves and Mary Hicks in 2003 found him guilty of two counts of murder in the first degree, but recommended mercy on both counts. Rush was also found guilty of first degree robbery, nighttime burglary,  and conspiracy to commit robbery. Sentencing is scheduled Friday, Dec. 7.

*       *       *       *

Remember to send packages to area military personnel serving overseas as soon as possible. Monday, Dec. 10, is the last day a first class package can be mailed with any chance of arriving before Christmas. It is always advisable to mail early rather than have a package arrive late.

*       *       *       *

The case against former Calhoun County chief deputy Ronald Bandy was dismissed Tuesday morning in circuit court after special prosecutor Gerry Hough said there was insufficient evidence to indicate a crime had been committed.

*       *       *       *

A Big Springs man, Verlin Millican, was injured Monday morning when his vehicle went over an embankment at the intersection of Leading Creek road and Rt. 16. He was transported to Camden-Clark Hospital, Parkersburg.

*       *       *       *

The Ahab Stemple cabin, which was moved to Heritage Village, is in the process of reconstruction. In order to move the structure, the second story and roof were removed. Jim Bell and crew have been putting the pieces of the log cabin back together. They have the second story up and hope to have the roof on soon.

November 8, 2007

Some of the trees in the area are still hanging on tight to their leaves despite hard wind and heavy rain. The National Weather Service was predicting snow flurries Tuesday night or Wednesday morning for Calhoun, and possible light accumulations of the white stuff for mountainous regions of West Virginia.

*       *       *       *

As usual, folks around the area were accused of being late for things last Sunday. The problem stemmed from clocks that were not set back an hour forcing people to show up an hour early.

*       *       *       *

Ronnie Allen Rush was scheduled to be re-tried this week in Jackson County for the double murder committed at Sand Ridge in May, 2003. West Virginia State Supreme Court ordered the re-trial due to State Police misconduct before and during a previous trial when Rush was convicted of murder, robbery, burglary and conspiracy.

*       *       *       *

Veterans Day is Sunday, Nov. 11. Government and many businesses will be closed in observance on Monday, Nov. 12.

Remember, as you enjoy the freedoms of this country, to honor the sacrifices that America’s veterans and their families have made and are making to keep this country safe and free.

*       *       *       *

According to court records, Ronald A. Gordon, Sr., pleaded guilty in circuit court on Tuesday to felony offenses of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree, as contained in counts one, six and eight of the May term of grand jury. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 2 at 10 a.m.

November 1, 2007

The heat wave is officially over. There was frost on the windshields of cars and rooftops of many houses were white on Monday and Tuesday mornings. Get out your jackets, fall has finally fallen. The next heat wave can be called Indian Summer (first heat wave after the frost), which usually doesn’t happen in November.

*       *       *       *

Ghost, goblins, superheroes, witches, princesses and more were running all over the county on Saturday evening as Halloween events were held at various places, and homes were hailed with the traditional, “Trick or Treat!”

It seems that the creatures of the night were very well behaved (and courteous). There were many more treats than tricks. All the volunteers for these events are to be commended.

*       *       *       *

Signs have been placed along Main Street, and perhaps other streets, in Grantsville that outlaw skateboards, bicycle riding, roller blades and scooter riding. Although two of the signs are attached to the Rt. 5 West signpost, they are there to prevent those activities from happening on town sidewalks.

There have been some narrow escapes with pedestrians exiting buildings and being almost run-over by persons who should know better than to ride these things on the sidewalks.

According to police chief Charles Stephens, tickets will be issued. Fines will be up to the municipal judge. Citations will also be issued for trespassing at the former high school property.

*       *       *       *

Be sure to set your clocks back one hour before you go to bed on Saturday night. Sunday, Nov. 4, is the day to “Fall back  . . . for another hour of sleep.”

October 25, 2007

With fall colors peaking in spectacular fashion, we are now getting some of the rain needed. The leaves will now fall quickly, but the rain will help dampen the forests and reduce the chance for brush fires while providing necessary mud for the land turtles to burrow in before the frost.

*       *       *       *

Mid-Ohio Valley Health Dept., Parkersburg, has reported some cases of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a biological agent responsible for difficult-to-treat infections in humans. It is a variation of Staphylococcus aureus, a common bacterium, which has the ability to survive treatment with beta-lactam antibiotics, including penicillin and methicillin.

Wood (1), Wirt (7) and Roane (9) have reported cases, while none have been reported in Calhoun. Everyone should remember to wash their hands thoroughly and often and tell children to do the same.

*       *       *       *

State Police in Braxton County arrested suspected second kidnapper William Denmark after he turned himself in Monday afternoon. Police had been searching for Denmark for almost two weeks.

October 18, 2007

Mother Nature continues to don her gaudiest outfit of the year with all of the fall colors. They are expected to peak within the next 10 days. When the leaves have fallen and color is gone, Mother Nature will cover herself in a blanket of white snow to sleep until spring.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville police chief Charles Stephens is obviously on the job and keeping the promises he made when he was sworn-in. He seems to be working hard.

*       *       *       *

Bow season for deer opened last weekend with no reports of anyone being accidentally shot with an arrow (although a few hunters, after falling, may give up using tree stands).

 *       *       *       *

The drought continues in the area, with little rain in the forecast. All-black wooly worms predict that a nasty winter is in store for the region.

*       *       *       *

Delinquent real estate for non-payment of taxes, published by the county in the newspaper, as required by law, shows a total due of $72,981 in taxes, interest and charges. A public auction will be held at the front door of the courthouse on Wednesday, Nov. 21, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

*       *       *       *

Police continue to look for an alleged second suspect in the kidnapping case mentioned in last week’s newspaper. Seth Denmark, who resides in both Calhoun and Roane counties, is still on the loose.

October 11, 2007

So far, this has been the hottest October on record with high temperature marks being set around the state. Combined with the prolonged drought, it should be an autumn to remember. A cold front moving through the area has cooled temperatures back to where they should be for hunting season.

*       *       *       *

The flowerbeds around the courthouse that were planted in May have been blooming. Hats off for a beautification project that improves the look of the whole community.

*       *       *       *

A 19 year-old Orma resident was arrested on Monday and charged with kidnapping three underage females from Calhoun County. Police are on the lookout for another suspect who may have been involved.

*       *       *       *

National Weather Service will conduct an advanced weather spotter class on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 7 p.m., at Upper West Fork Park. For in-formation, call 655-8172.

*       *       *       *

Allegheny Power has been working on electric lines along Rt. 16 north of Grantsville. They have been installing new lines and poles. This may explain the frequent power outages and flickers residents of that area have been experiencing lately.     

*       *       *       *

There were two accidents involving four-wheelers over the weekend. One was early Saturday morning in the Cabot Station area that injured the driver and a passenger, who were transported to Minnie Hamilton Health System.

An accident in the Spring Run area had been vacated when the EMS and Arnoldsburg Volunteer Fire Dept. arrived.

*       *       *       *

An insect-borne disease, known as epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD), has been found in at least 20 West Virginia counties where deer have tested positive for the disease. Area counties include Calhoun, Roane, Braxton and Ritchie.

The disease has not been found in West Virginia cattle since 1993. Division of Natural Resources said that the first heavy frost will kill off the biting midge that carries the disease. It cannot be transmitted to humans.

October 4, 2007

It is starting to feel like fall in the area, as long as you get up early in the morning. Chilly morning temperatures moved in over the weekend, but afternoon temperatures are still warming up to the 80’s. Trees are heading for a spectacular fall showing in a couple of weeks.

*       *       *       *

Creston residents are receiving their mail via Bigbend Post Office. Around 100 people attended a public meeting at Creston Community Building last Thursday. Postal officials said that the Creston address would remain for the time being, but the post office would close. Creston postmaster Ida Wager is now at Bigbend.

*       *       *       *

A cow was killed early Sunday morning when a Roane County driver lost control of a car, struck the cow, a parked truck, some mailboxes, and a garbage bin.

 *       *       *       *

Two Grantsville landmarks are for sale again, the former graded school and former high school. The graded school can be had for $85,000 and the high school can be purchased for $225,000.

*       *       *       *

The rain came last week and residents drove safely through the area of the oil spill on Rt. 16. Hopefully, the rain washed away some of the oil and the road is a little safer.

*       *       *       *

Melco Lumber, a Pennsylvania owned company located just south of the Calhoun-Clay line, will close, causing more unemployment. Lumber is in a slump, according to representatives of the company.

*       *       *       *

Two cars collided in front of Cha-Ti’s convenience store, east of Grantsville on Rt. 5. Both vehicles suffered severe damage and the drivers were transported to Minnie Hamilton.

September 27, 2007

An unexplained power outage in the Pleasant Hill area left residents without electric from about 10:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Sunday. Many attending churches in the area were glad to have windows so they could see their hymnbooks.

*       *       *       *

County clerk Richard Kirby and new director of elections Connie Smith are in Charleston this week for election training.

*       *       *       *

The first week of fall has been unusually hot with temperatures hovering around 90 degrees. Cooler weather is expected for the latter part of the week with daytime highs in the 70’s, along with a prediction of some much-needed rain.

*       *       *       *

An oil spill along Rt. 16 from Pleasant Hill to Leading Creek road caused problems for motorists last week. At this time, it is unknown who is responsible for the leak.

The highway department responded quickly with a truck and sand spreader, causing some to wonder if it was going to snow.

Residents of the area said that, before the state truck arrived, the crude oil was so bad on Jackson Hill, it was forcing some pick-up trucks to lock-in the four-wheel-drive to make the climb to the top, and many cars had to run with two tires on the berm to get enough traction.

When rain does come, motorists should be cautious along that section of highway, as the rain will make the road surface extremely slick and the curves treacherous.

*       *       *       *

A new front porch awning is under construction on the old jail building. The lightning strike that damaged the chimney made massive holes in the old awning, which had to be taken down. Steve Sams of Sams' Home Improvement is doing the work.

*       *       *       *

A Michigan man, who was visiting friends in the area, was severely injured in a four-wheeler accident in a remote area between Munday and Brohard. He was taken by helicopter to Charleston Area Medical Center with a possible back injury.

September 20, 2007

According to the National Weather Service, this was the warmest August in the 113-year record for West Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, the Carolinas, Georgia, Alabama, Florida and Utah. According to a wooly-worm spotted last week, which was all black, it may be a nasty, cold winter.

*       *       *       *

The estate auction of Coleman and Katheryn Burrows had a large turnout on Saturday. Over 200 bidders were on hand to purchase the many collectibles and remember the Burrows.

*       *       *       *

The temperature was in the low 40’s on Saturday morning, causing many Calhoun folks to dig in their closets to find jackets, coats and sweaters. Fall begins on Sunday, Sept. 23, and frost on the pumpkin will be here soon. Leaves on some trees are already beginning to turn, no doubt due to the drought.

*       *       *       *

The Chronicle’s new improved website is still popular throughout the world. We are still waiting for a visit from Antarctica to complete our collection of continents.

*       *       *       *

The 40th annual Molasses Festival cookbooks are for sale at Crystal Lynn’s Hair Trendz, Millstone, and at the Calhoun Chronicle office, Grantsville. It has 600 recipes and comes with an easel to hold it while you cook. They are going fast, so get one while you can.

*       *       *       *

Local law enforcement officers, with the aid of the National Guard, have confiscated 194 marijuana plants from two locations in the county--134 in the Russet area and 60 in two separate plots at Leading Creek.

September 6, 2007

The Town of Grantsville has a new part-time volunteer policeman. Jeff Starcher has started and is PD 3.

*       *       *       *

Please remember to recycle household batteries. Americans purchase more than two billion household batteries a year and most contain metals that are potentially toxic, such as mercury, cadmium and nickel.

 The largest source of mercury in garbage is household batteries, especially alkaline and button batteries. Mercury is a heavy metal with high toxicity. Long-term exposure can permanently damage the brain, kidneys, and fetuses.

Household batteries may be recycled at Chloe Hardware, Rt. 16, Chloe, and Cabot Recycling, Rt. 5, Cabot Station.

*       *       *       *

Kevin Church, local Frontier telephone man and minister, was injured on Monday morning when he was pinned to his garage door by a 4-wheeler that slipped off his truck. Although he was taken by helicopter to Charleston, he was released later in the day with multiple rib fractures.     

*       *       *       *

A fire was reported early Saturday at Calhoun-Gilmer Career Center by an automatic fire detector. Grantsville volunteer firemen responded to the scene, but could find no trace of a fire. School officials were there to check on the electrical system.

*       *       *       *

Several small fires have been reported throughout the county, as well as lightning strikes on personal property.

*       *       *       *

The CCCOA is still looking for apples to be donated for its apple butter project for the first week of October. If anyone has apple bearing trees and would like to have the apples go to a good cause, call Cindy Cottrell at CCCOA, 354-7017.

August 30, 2007

John Manis Richards, 43, has apparently fled Grantsville after an arrest warrant was issued by Glenville police chief John Moss. He is wanted for allegedly stealing a delivery truck worth $30,000 and building materials and tools worth $3,200 from Hardman’s Home Center, Glenville.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun Community Resources, Inc., in conjunction with local volunteer fire departments, is still taking applications for the Safe Families Smoke Detectors Program. Household information will be required. The program is free. Call CRI, 354-9265, or stop by for information.

*       *       *       *

Angel Food Ministries is taking orders for the September menu. Place orders by 5 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 4, at J&B Drug Store, Grantsville. For information, call 354-6752.

*       *       *       *

If enough interest is shown, there will be an advanced weather spotter class given in the county. There needs to be at least 10 people signed up who have completed the basic class. For information, call Michelle Sears, 655-8172.

*       *       *       *

Two Calhoun sheriff’s deputies will be re-tested for physical training in January. If they pass, they can go to the police academy.

*       *       *       *

Steve “Squeak” Shriver of Shriver Trucking, Weston, was injured while delivering gravel to a well site near Jackson’s Mill. He is known in Calhoun for supplying gravel to farmers and oil field personnel.

August 23, 2007

A man was killed in an ATV accident on Monday evening at Crummies Creek. He was identified Tuesday morning as Joshua Roberts, 22.

*       *       *       *

A burro owned by Keith Lynch was attacked by what is thought to be a bear last Friday night. The burro survived and was treated by Joe Cain on Saturday.

*       *       *       *

Ginseng season is in. Please harvest Ginseng responsibly.

*       *       *       *

Reconstruction on the chimney and slate roof at the former jail building should be completed this week. The new work is almost indistinguishable from the original.

*       *       *       *

School starts Monday. Be sure to look out for children in the mornings and the afternoons. They might not be looking out for you.     

*       *       *       *

CCCOA is looking for apples to be donated for its apple butter project in the first week of October. Call 354-7017.

August 16, 2007

  Peter Cobbett has begun repairs on the courthouse annex building, which was damaged by a lightning strike in July.

  *       *       *       *

  West Fork Community Park, Arnoldsburg, will host the 40th annual Molasses Festival, Sept. 27-29.

  *       *       *       *

  CCCOA is looking for apples to be donated for its apple butter project in the first week of October. Call CCCOA, 354-7017, and ask for Cindy.

  *       *       *       *

  A fire on White Pine damaged the home of Randy and Pam Robinson. They and their son Caleb, 14, need a place to stay. If you would like to help, call her parents, James and Estel Tedrick of Creston, 275-3387.

  *       *       *       *

  The weather for the Perseid meteor shower was clear skies and warm temperatures, making it one of the best meteor viewing experiences in recent history. In a 45-minute period, over 70 meteors were sighted.

  *       *       *       *

  Four area geocaches have been visited within the last week. Geocaching.com reports there were visits to Stump Hotel, Calhoun County Park, Upper West Fork Ramp, and Mike Fink and the Unknown Indian.

August 9, 2007

Charlie Whipkey resigned from Grantsville town council on Aug. 1 for personal reasons.

*       *       *       *

CCCOA is looking for apples to be donated for its apple butter project planned for the first week of October. Call CCCOA, 354-7017.

*       *       *       *

Peter Cobbett will start repairs on the chimney at the former jail building this week. The chimney was damaged by a storm.

*       *       *       *

A $12,000 court security grant has been received. Surveillance cameras will be installed in the courthouse hallways and courtroom.

*       *       *       *

The community of Pink was the hub of excitement last Thursday evening, when Helen Franklin ran her Chevy Blazer over a hill. An ambulance, Arnoldsburg Volunteer Fire Dept., and deputies Justin Metheney and Craig Gherke responded. It is believed Franklin and her dog emerged unscathed.

*       *       *       *

Jeanne Wilson of Mt. Zion has received another writing award. Her short story about a young girl’s battle with mental illness, “Locked In,” won third place in the Alabama Writer’s Conclave competition.

*       *       *       *

The Calhoun Chronicle’s new improved website, www.calhounchronicle.com has added a new page for funeral notices that occur between publishing dates. The link can be found at the top and bottom of the page.

*       *       *       *

August 2, 2007

An accident on Rt. 16 at Big Springs early Monday morning resulted in no injuries for driver Jason Cunningham and minor cuts and bruises for a seven-year-old boy who was a passenger. The truck was a total loss.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun County Library is having its annual book sale through Friday. You may take as many books as you want for a donation. It is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

*       *       *       *

The family of Eileen Cox, whose house and belongings were lost to a fire last weekend, is in need of donations to help them make an apartment a home. For information on what is needed, call Gary or Rose Knight, 354-6497, or Grantsville town office, 354-7500.

*       *       *       *

Judge David Nibert presided over circuit court on Monday.

James M. Jones was sentenced one to five years on home confinement for his participation in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

George Nicholas Parsons was sentenced to four months in Central Regional Jail on abuse charges; he pled to battery.

James Blankenship was sentenced one to five years on home confinement for violating probation.

The case of Stephen M. Buvoltz was continued to next term due to the need to have evidence analyzed.

July 26, 2007

Miletree Center, Spencer, was sold for $3.4 million last week. It was one of 25 facilities purchased by FC-GEN Acquisition, Inc., from Genesis Health-Care in a $125 million deal.

*       *       *       *

*       *       *       *

The rain we had last week raised the river by five feet, making it difficult for local fishermen. Now that the work week has started, the river is back down and more rain is predicted later this week.

May 31, 2007

As of Tuesday morning, 34 Grantsville residents had voted early in the municipal election to be held Tuesday, June 5.

*       *       *       *

The streets of Grantsville are crowded with carnival rides and vendor’s booths in preparation for the Calhoun County Wood Festival. Be prepared to detour around the courthouse while driving through town.

*       *       *       *

Ron Gordon, charged with nine felonies, appeared for a hearing before Judge Nibert on May 23. He is scheduled to appear for pre-trial motions on Tuesday, June 19, 10 a.m., and to answer charges on eight counts of sexual assault and one count of nighttime burglary on Tuesday, July 10, 9:30 a.m. He is represented by Ernest Skaggs.

*       *       *       *

Jane Cain Lynch, a native of Calhoun, has been hired as superintendent of schools, replacing Ron Blankenship, who is retiring. Lynch will return to the county from W.Va. Dept. of Education, Charleston, where she has been employed in the Office of Assessment and Accountability.

May 24, 2007

Todd Borek, WSAZ-TV meteorologist, was at Arnoldsburg School on May 10 to tape a “Winning Attitudes” segment on John Bugby’s African Music Program. The piece aired May 15. The program has been an exciting and rewarding experience for Arnoldsburg students.

*       *       *       *

By Monday afternoon, 19 voters had taken advantage of early voting in the Grantsville municipal election.

*       *       *       *

Seems that the Town of Grantsville chose the right time to cut volunteer officer C.S. Dellinger loose. Shortly after leaving the town’s employment, he taught a concealed weapons class - allegedly using false documents showing that he was a certified firearms instructor.           

Certificates from that class will not be honored.

*       *       *       *

Ronnie Rush, a Calhoun man who has been granted a re-trial by the W.Va. Supreme Court, agreed to initial steps of a plea agreement during a status hearing in Jackson County last week. Originally sentenced to prison in the murders of Ward Groves and Mary Hicks, Rush will likely cooperate with the state, possibly providing detailed information about the murders. The agreement still requires him to plead to at least two felonies. Rush will return to court in Jackson on June 21.

*       *       *       *

Minnie Hamilton Health System will begin paving the parking lots around the facility this week. The paving is expected to last 8-10 days.

May 16, 2007

Suzanne Fox and Helen Johnson have entered the election for Grantsville’s recorder as write-in candidates. Early voting is underway.

*       *       *       *

It seems the smoking ban in Grantsville isn’t working. Residents with asthma are frustrated to encounter smokers outside businesses and organizations.

*       *       *       *

Did you know that W.Va. law states that headlights are to be turned on when it is raining? It isn’t so the driver can see, it is so others can see you.

*       *       *       *

Pleasant Hill School has a new sign. Teachers and the community helped with the school improvement project.

*       *       *       *

Saturday is Armed Forces Day. President Harry S Truman led the effort to establish a holiday for citizens to thank military members for patriotic service. On Aug. 31, 1949, the first Armed Forces Day was established to recognize those serving in Air Force, Marines, Army, Navy, and Coast Guard.

*       *       *       *

Gardeners are hoping for rain. Time has come to seed sweet corn, tomatoes and annual flowers, but there has been no rain for almost two weeks. Rain is predicted to arrive Thursday.

*       *       *       *

The annual Calhoun County Wood Festival is two weeks away. Information is available at www.calhounwoodfestival.com. 

May 10, 2007

Despite the frost warning this week, time has come to seed summer squash, cucumbers, snap beans, seed lettuce and late celery.

*       *       *       *

Following a public accusation that he did not have a handicap parking permit, town council member Gaylen Duskey brought his permit to the newspaper for proof that it was his.

*       *       *       *

Poll workers have been selected for the June 5 municipal election. Democrats  serving are Lori Fleagle, Dorothy McCauley and Jennifer Albright, with Carroll McCauley as alternate. Republicans serv­ing are Pam Davis and Josh Funk, with Dolly Hickman as alternate.

*       *       *       *

At least seven dusk till dawn lights have been installed at Wayne Underwood Field. The project got off the ground with  a small grant from Calhoun County commission. Rick Alderman donated time to install the lights, with the help of Kevin Church and Rusty Dawson.

May 3, 2007

Local residents took advan­tage of the presence of the attorney general’s “Credit Car” at Calhoun Courthouse last Wednesday. Two A.G. employees were kept busy helping residents check their credit records and advising those who found problems of the best way to correct those problems.

*       *       *       *

The first hummingbirds of the spring season arrived last week, looking for those sugar-water feeders. Whippoorwills also began their spring songs.

*       *       *       *

West Virginia Air National Guard 130th Airlift Wing is sending 85 troops to Afghanistan. The Charleston unit has several C-130 transport planes that will be used to move troops, equipment and supplies. They began leaving last week.

*       *       *       *

More flags are flying in Calhoun cemeteries through the efforts of VFW Post 5959, which has erected flags at St. Paul and Bryner Chapel cemeteries.

*       *       *       *

A Stinson man was life-flighted by HealthNet to Charleston Area Medical Center after he was thrown from his vehicle. The driver, in his 30s, lost control on Rt. 16 near Stinson Grocery and rolled the car over. He was ejected from the vehicle.

*       *       *       *

The re-trial for convicted murderer Ronnie Rush will begin with a preliminary hearing on May 11. The trail is set to start on May 28 in Jackson County.

*       *       *       *

The 34-mile Creston ATV Poker Run drew 347 entrants on Saturday. First price winner ($1,041) was Cynthia Adkins of Mt. Gay, second ($347) was Josh Stull of Mt. Zion and third ($347) was Vince Clancy.

*       *       *       *

A butterfly bandit has decided to decorate a Main Street flower pot with beautiful outdoor decorations. The Chronicle staff thanks the anonymous decorator for the colorful additions outside the annex office door.

April 26, 2007

Eddie Harris, courthouse custodian has had a hard time lately. When the door lock on the circuit clerk’s office quit functioning, he had to climb in an open window. When he went to lower the American flag last week, the rope on the pole came undone and the flag went fluttering on the wind. He and Bill Bailey caught the flag before it completely hit the ground.

*       *       *       *

Relay for Life 2007 will be held Saturday, June 23, 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., at Wayne Underwood Field, Grantsville. The theme will be “Operation Hope.”

*       *       *       *

There has been a grievance filed by Eric Webb, a Grantsville employee laid off earlier this year. The subject is a personnel matter and therefore is not public record - unless Webb chooses to make it so.

*       *       *       *

After 29 years as a school superintendent, Ronald Blankenship advised the Calhoun school board that he will retire at the end of June.

*       *       *       *

Police were attempting to serve a warrant on Matthew Bell when he fled into the woods, according to Cpl. Doug Starcher. The warrant is tied to Bell’s alleged involvement in a breaking and entering on Bryner Road a few weeks ago. He was apprehended and sent to Central Regional Jail with a $10,000 bond.

*       *       *       *

Judge David Nibert dismissed drug charges against John Richards. Known as “The Lone Meth Ranger” from his online newsletter, Richards had been facing multiple counts related to the alleged operation of a meth lab in Grantsville. The prosecution reported that the Grantsville detachment of West Virginia State Police threw away or lost the evidence.

*       *       *       *

The State fire marshal’s office is investigating three suspicious Calhoun house fires over the weekend. Two houses on Mud Fork Road, off Rt. 16 near Chloe, burned to the ground on Saturday night and early Sunday morning. A house also burned early Sunday morning just off Nobe Road.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville town council met last week to lay the levy. Loretta Stevens and Gaylen Duskey were absent. Stevens is teaching an evening class on sewing.

*       *       *       *

Macel Hayes of Marietta, mother of Lisa Minney, Chronicle reporter, taught Robert’s Rules of Order in her career as a teacher. She has donated a hardback copy of Robert’s Rules to the Town of Grantsville for its use.

April 19, 2007

Greg Russell Springston, 26, was sentenced to 1-10 years in the state penitentiary and fined $1,000 for DUI causing death. He was sentenced by Judge Thomas Evans III in relation to the death of a Spencer man who was killed in a collision at Leatherbark in February, 2005.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville VFW Post is continuing its effort to erect flag-poles and flags in Calhoun cemeteries. The veterans plan to erect at least 10 more flags this year. They began last week at Broomstick Cemetery.

*       *       *       *

Kathy Wood and Jacob Mc-Cumbers, E-911 dispatchers, have completed requirements for the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) public safety telecommunicator 1 training.

*       *       *       *

A Calhoun Deputy was unable to meet physical requirements for certification for the second time. He will have one more chance to pass.

*       *       *       *
 

Sunday, Apr. 22, is Earth Day. Friday, Apr. 27, is National Arbor Day. It is a good time to plant a tree.

*       *       *       *

Get your hummingbird feeders cleaned and ready. The tiny birds should be returning soon.

*       *       *       *

Awnings over the windows to help spectators view the field have been added to the press box and Wayne Underwood Museum at the Calhoun Middle/ High School athletic complex.

*       *       *       *

Heavy rain swept across West Virginia on Sunday, causing small streams to be out of banks. The West Fork was half-way across the road on Rt. 16 near Rush Run and Orma. Water was also in the road on Rt. 5 at Cain’s Riffle and on Rt. 7 near Russett.

*       *       *       *

This year’s 58th West Virginia Folk Festival at Glenville is dedicated to Calhoun’s noted mountain music makers, Lester and Linda McCumbers of Nicut.

April 12, 2007

It has been confirmed that five state police officers, Fluharty, Hunt, Starcher, Ellyson and Campbell, currently or formerly involved with the Grantsville detachment, were given polygraph tests in an administrative investigation being conducted by the state police. It has also been confirmed that Fluharty, Hunt, Starcher and Campbell passed their tests.

*       *       *       *

Tulips planted around Calhoun Courthouse by volunteers were in full bloom on Apr. 3. On Apr. 5, it snowed.

*       *       *       *

The decorative foil jacket around the pot your Easter lily came in could kill the plant. No water should be left standing in the bottom of this foil covering, or the lily will be ruined. Remove the pot from the foil each time you water the plant.

*       *       *       *

The West Virginia Film office has received a request from a locations manager for The Travel Channel for its series “The Best Places to Find Cash and Treasures.” It is looking for locations that attract tourists to places where families can hunt for and discover treasures (silver, gold, civil war relics, fossils, antiques buried in old dumps, sunken treasure). If you know of locations in West Virginia, email Pam Haynes,  phaynes@wvtourism.com.

*       *       *       *

With the arrival of spring, Calhoun County geocaches are beginning to be visited. Caches entitled “Calhoun County Park Cache” and “Wind Caves” have been visited twice in the past month.

*       *       *       *

The Grantsville municipal water plant has been awarded two certificates recognizing exceptional performance over a three-year period. One was for the most outstanding surface water system, with the Grantsville plant pulling water from the Little Kanawha River.

*       *       *       *

Following a trial in circuit court last week, a Calhoun jury found Danny Minigh not guilty on two counts: operating a clandestine meth lab and manufacturing a controlled substance. The jury found Minigh guilty of conspiracy in the case, for which he is facing 1-5 years in the state penitentiary.

*       *       *       *

Bernadine Evans reports that she was incorrectly identified in last week’s council meeting by a neighbor.

April 5, 2007

A car crashed against a tree on Annamoriah Straight last Thursday. The driver received minor injuries. Calhoun EMS and Grantsville Volunteer Fire Dept. responded.

*       *       *       *

A Calhoun man was life-flighted by HealthNet to Charleston Area Medical Center after his vehicle went out of control and plunged into the West Fork between Orma and Minnora last week. Upper West Fork VFD and Calhoun EMS had to extract the victim from the vehicle, which came to rest in waist-deep water.

*       *       *       *

The southern part of Calhoun was without power on Sunday evening after several lightning storms swept through the area. There was a brush fire on Beech Road near Milo on Monday evening. Upper West Fork Volunteer Fire Dept. responded to both calls.

*       *       *       *

Parkersburg Violent Crimes and Narcotics Task Force arrested two Calhoun men in            

Wood County. The men were allegedly buying thousands of nasal pills in Parkersburg. They were charged with operating or attempting to operate a clandestine drug lab, and operating a business having drug devices.

A search warrant for property on Jesse’s Run followed the arrests. A police report indicates about 64 items were removed from the house and cellar, most associated with ingredients or paraphernalia used in the manufacture of methamphetamine.

*       *       *       *

The trial set to begin this week for former Calhoun chief deputy Ron Bandy has been postponed. Special prosecutor Gerald B. Hough requested the postponement, as several wit-nesses in the case are employees of the W.Va. Dept. of Health and Human Resources in Grantsville and wanted to attend the funeral of their manager, James Morford, on Tuesday.

*       *       *       *

April is the month to divide perennials. To keep your potted Easter lily in good health, avoid placing it in direct sunlight, and turn the pot every two days.

March 29, 2007

Following the issue of instructions to reach the dog warden in last week’s newspaper, Calhoun County humane officer Bob Groves clarified the difference between a dog warden and a humane officer. He deals with vicious and abused animals, not simply strays. For assistance from the humane officer, call 354-9271.

*       *       *       *

A special prosecutor assigned to the case against former Calhoun deputy Ron Bandy asked judge Thomas Evans III to dismiss an indictment during a hearing last week. Evans denied the request made by Gerry Hough, who said there are major problems with the State Police’s case.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville town council met last Thursday to have the second reading of a water and sewer rate increase and work on the fiscal budget for next year. It allotted extra funds for repair of the Court Street sidewalk and for repairs of the trash truck.

*       *       *       *

Tuesday morning, the town recorder held a drawing for ballot positions of the names of candidates in the upcoming municipal election.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville resident and town council member Gaylen Duskey has offered to serve as director for the 11th annual Appalachian Classic mountain bike race at Calhoun County Park on Sunday, June 18.

*       *       *       *

Forsythia are blooming and the bass voices of bullfrogs have joined the soprano chorus of the spring peepers. Geese have begun nesting in the area and nearly all spring birds have now made an appearance.

March 21, 2007

Last week’s article on the industrial park incorrectly stated that county commissioners exonerate property taxes on Calhoun County Industrial Park. The park property taxes cannot be exonerated, as the park is not being taxed.

*       *       *       *

Write-in candidates for the June 5 election must register with the town recorder before they can be elected to any office. Deadline for write-in candidate registration for possible election is May 15, 21 days prior to the election date.

*       *       *       *

The only candidate for recorder, Jane Wease, has moved outside Grantsville town limits, and may or may not move back within the limits    by election time. There are 10 candidates for town council, and two candidates for mayor.

*       *       *       *

Crocus and daffodils are sprouting and blooming, and even tulips are sprouting leaves. Ramps have also sprouted and revealed their locations. Wednesday, Mar. 21, was the official first day of spring. Gardeners can plant asparagus and set strawberry plants. Now is the time to have soil tested.

*       *       *       *

To have the dog warden assist you with stray dog or cat issues, call 354-9271.

*       *       *       *

The Appalachian Classic Mountain Bike Race and Festival, scheduled June 17 at Calhoun County Park, may not be held this year due to the lack of a volunteer race promoter, who handles legal and insurance aspects of the race with W.Va. Mountain Bike Association, coordinates other volunteers and EMS services, and seeks local race support donations. Anyone interested in taking on this position can email appalachianclassic@yahoo.com.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun Wood Festival committee held a softball tournament on Saturday, Mar. 10, at Underwood Field in Grantsville. Winning the four-team tournament was Eugene King’s team, sponsored by State Farm. Second place went to Denton Bell’s team and third place went to Seth Jarvis’ team.

March 15, 2007

Calhoun County Commission discussed tossing the county’s employee handbook during its meeting on Monday. The hand-book, established years ago, became an issue when assessor Jason Nettles chose to no longer abide by the handbook in his department. If commissioners cannot settle the issue, and the handbook is rescinded, the county’s insurance rates will increase.

*       *       *       *

Sheriff Carl Ballangee has announced that the sheriff’s department will be receiving a $5,000 onboard camera for one of its cruisers at no charge.

*       *       *       *

Commissioners passed a new 9-1-1 addressing and mapping ordinance during Monday’s meeting.

*       *       *       *

Crocus are in bloom in the region. Daffodils should be blooming soon. Saturday is St. Patrick’s Day.

*       *       *       *

A breaking and entering resulting in stolen equipment has been reported at the former Giar’s Grocery on Rt. 16 near Orma. Owner Carol Giar said a new Troy-Bilt 5,500 watt generator, red in color, was stolen between Jan. 22 and Mar. 2. She is offering an award for information. Call 422-2269.

*       *       *       *

Johnny Staats and Delivery Boys and Mike Morningstar will be music headliners at the Wood Festival, May 30-June 2. Staats and his musicians will perform at 9 p.m., June 2, on a newly elevated Main Street stage. This year’s entertainment will be free to the public.

March, 8 2007

The Stumptown/Normantown region was without power from about 8:30 on Friday evening until almost noon on Saturday.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville Police Dept. is checking business doors during evening patrols. Each time an officer makes sure a business is secure, a blue card is left in the door with the date and, soon, the time of the door check.

*       *       *       *

West Virginia’s spring forest fire season is underway. Through May 31, outdoor burning will be permitted only between the hours of 4 p.m. and 7 a.m. Violators can be charged with a misdemeanor, fined up to $300, and held liable for the costs of fighting the fire and any damage the fire causes to the property of others.

*       *       *       *

Time has come to prune raspberries and fruit trees. Indoors, gardeners should seed leaf lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, and peppers. Begin planting your garden on a dry day, when the soil is not wet or sticky, and the danger of frost is past.

*       *       *       *

Don’t forget to spring forward. Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, Mar. 11. Spring is two weeks away.

*       *       *       *

Spring peeper frogs began their chirping on Mar. 2 around the ponds and waters in the Stumptown area.

*       *       *       *

Girl Scout Cookies are to arrive in Calhoun County for troop pick up on Tuesday.

*       *       *       *

Calhoun County schools will shift from block scheduling to an eight-period instructional day by the 2008-09 school year. Although middle and high school students were given  the chance to informally vote  on the issue, and voted against the change, the new scheduling was unanimously approved by the Calhoun County board of education on Monday.

February 28, 2007

Robins and indigo buntings have made their way back to Calhoun after spending the winter somewhere in the south.

*       *       *       *

Whatever might be said about global warming, many Calhoun residents are happy to see a little local warming taking place. Perhaps the areas that had been an ice rink for cars will simply turn back to mud.

*       *       *       *

The “Gardening by the Moon” calendar says that now is the time for planting above-ground crops like beans, peppers, cucumbers and melons, “if your climate is suitable.”

*       *       *       *

The pigeons in Grantsville continue their defiance of the owl placed atop the courthouse. The owl worked for a few months until a mob of crows tried to pick a fight with it. The pigeons were watching and seem to have lost all respect for the owl. We have included a photo (in the paper) of a group of them dancing around the owl while one perches on its head.

*       *       *       *

Over 100 people braved the cold temperatures and snowy weather to attend the first annual Red Neck Pageant, sponsored by Calhoun County Wood Festival on Saturday at Calhoun Middle/High School auditorium. We hope to have photos and a story in next week’s issue of the Chronicle.

*       *       *       *

In case you didn’t notice, the county line was quite obvious during the snow we have had lately. Almost all main roads were clear to the county line in Calhoun and turned white as snow when crossing over to the next county. We should thank our county road workers for a job well done.

February 22, 2007

The frozen Little Kanawha River has now thawed. Warmer temperatures and heavy rain have broken up the ice and moved it downstream. Some of the ice blocks thrust up onto the banks of the river were still six inches thick.

*       *       *       *

With the disappearance of snow and ice, more signs of spring are showing up. Many folks report snowdrop flowers are about to bloom and crocuses and daffodils are showing through the soil and will be blooming soon.

*       *       *       *

Grantsville’s State Police detachment chief Sgt. C.J. Ellyson has returned to his duty station in South Charleston. Calhoun County’s two remaining State Police officers will remain here for the time being.

*       *       *       *

A Cairo woman was taken to Minnie Hamilton Health Care Center last Thursday morning by Calhoun EMS after her car went over an embankment near the intersection of Leading Creek Road and Rt. 16.

*       *       *       *

Fire has once again struck a home while the family was   away, destroying the residence   of Everett and Alma Doolittle of Annamoriah on Tuesday morning. They were in Parkersburg at a doctor’s appointment. They lost everything. As soon as information on where donations can be sent is available, we will put it on the Chronicle website/blogpage and print it in the newspaper.

*       *       *       *

If you have not already done so, now is a good time to plan your garden.

February 15, 2007

The 45th annual Calhoun County Wood Festival committee has announced that this year’s main concert will be free to the public. Johnny Staats and the Delivery Boys and Mike Morningstar will perform.

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Calhoun EMS and Arnoldsburg Volunteer Fire Dept. responded to Crummies Creek last Thursday to discover a stolen vehicle on its side in a ravine. The driver was not found. The vehicle was allegedly stolen from St. Albans.

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Don Kelly, who has been missed at town council meetings (he is a regular audience member), is recovering well from hip replacement surgery.

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A fire destroyed the home of Michelle and Ron Wagoner last Thursday. The community was quick to respond and provide relief. Information on ways to help is provided in this week’s letter box and the Chronicle blog at www.calhounchronicle.com.

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Adam D. Tucker will sing “Redneck Girl” and other selections during the Wood Festival committee’s first annual Redneck Pageant at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, at Calhoun Middle/High School auditorium and he will serve as a judge.

February 8, 2007

Temperatures around the area have dropped below zero degrees. Frozen water pipes have become almost common in the last few days. Calhoun schools have been on a two-hour delay during this time, but children are still waiting for the bus      in very extreme cold temperatures.